The Telangana government has received approval from the Indian Air Force (IAF) to develop a civil airport in Adilabad. This marks a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to improve regional access, with Adilabad poised to become a critical hub in Telangana’s growing aviation infrastructure.
The approval comes on the heels of a similar nod for a proposed airport in Mamnoor, Warangal, ensuring that the state will soon have three operational airports, including the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at Shamshabad. The approval, granted ‘in principle’ by the IAF, paves the way for the construction of the civil airport at Adilabad. The IAF’s decision reflects the growing recognition of the town’s potential as a key aviation centre, strategically located near the borders of Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. Adilabad has long been calling for an airport, with locals having to rely on airports in Hyderabad or Nagpur for their travel needs. This has made travel more time-consuming and costly for the region’s residents, hindering its economic development and connectivity with other parts of the country. The approval letter, issued by IAF director Sanap Bajirao Ramnath, outlines the strategic benefits of the proposed airport. Notably, the IAF has suggested that the Adilabad airport be developed as a joint user airfield, facilitating both civil and military aircraft operations. This joint-use model is seen as a practical approach to managing the airspace while enhancing the utility of the airfield for both civil and defence purposes. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has now been tasked with submitting a detailed proposal for the issuance of a No Objection Certificate (NoC) from the IAF.
According to Telangana’s Roads and Buildings Minister, Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, this approval is a result of the state government’s persistent efforts to improve infrastructure and regional connectivity. He also noted that the approval for the Adilabad airport came shortly after the government secured clearance for the Mamnoor airport in Warangal, underscoring the rapid progress the state has made in developing a robust air transport network. The Adilabad airport project is expected to transform the town into a crucial gateway for the northern parts of Telangana. The airport’s proximity to neighbouring states like Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra positions it strategically for regional travel and trade. Additionally, it will likely stimulate economic activity in the region, attracting investment and providing much-needed access for business and leisure travel. While the IAF has approved the project, the next steps involve a comprehensive review by state officials, who will soon present a detailed plan to the central government for final approval. This process includes preparing land for the airport development and coordinating with the IAF to ensure seamless integration of military and civilian operations.
This move forms part of Telangana’s broader strategy to modernise and expand its infrastructure, with the government focusing on enhancing connectivity both within the state and with neighbouring regions. The development of the Adilabad airport, along with the Mamnoor airport, will not only ease travel within Telangana but also boost its status as a key transportation hub in central India. As Telangana looks to improve its aviation infrastructure, the approval for Adilabad’s civil airport will pave the way for further advancements in regional air connectivity. By connecting more towns and cities, the state hopes to drive economic growth, improve accessibility, and reduce the dependency on distant airports, making it easier for residents to travel and do business across the country.
