Naidu Proposes Civil Aviation University in Vizag, Calls for Heritage-Inspired Airport Designs Across Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday urged the Union Civil Aviation Ministry to consider establishing a Civil Aviation University in Visakhapatnam, highlighting the city’s strategic importance and potential as an aviation hub. The suggestion was made during a high-level review meeting at the state Secretariat, which was attended virtually by Union Minister for Civil Aviation K. Ram Mohan Naidu, senior ministry officials, and the Chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI)
Strengthening Air Connectivity
Chief Minister Naidu emphasized the urgent need to improve air connectivity from key airports in Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, and other cities across Andhra Pradesh to both domestic and international destinations. He noted that increasing flight operations would be crucial for boosting tourism, investment, and economic development in the state.
Cultural Identity in Infrastructure
Reviewing the progress of the new terminal building at Vijayawada International Airport, the Chief Minister called for a design that would be architecturally distinctive and a symbol of Andhra Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage. He instructed that elements representing the state’s identity—such as Kuchipudi dance, Kondapalli toys, Amaravati motifs, and Lepakshi art—be incorporated into the departure and arrival blocks, terminal elevation, and passenger lounges.
Naidu also reviewed construction aspects such as the terminal’s highway ramp connection and pressed for timely execution.
Airport Expansion Plans
In addition to Vijayawada, Naidu reviewed terminal development at Kadapa and Rajamahendravaram airports.
Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu briefed the Chief Minister on ongoing technical feasibility studies for new airports at Dagadarthi, Kuppam, and Palasa (Srikakulam district). Regarding the proposed Amaravati Airport, he noted that land surveys are in progress, and a report from RITES is expected soon. Once land pooling is finalized, the project could break ground within two years.
Operational Growth and New Services
The Union Minister reported a 40% increase in traffic at Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam airports, with growing interest from airline operators to enhance connectivity at Tirupati, Rajamahendravaram, and Kurnool.
He announced that:
- TruJet will begin services from Visakhapatnam in October
- International flights connecting Vijayawada to Singapore and Tirupati to Muscat are set to launch soon
- Seaplane operations are expected to commence post-September
In a significant development, he also revealed that the Qatar Aviation Fund has shown investment interest in the upcoming Bhogapuram Greenfield Airport.
