Karnataka slams Centre over Madurai airport upgrade, seeks international tag for Hubballi, Belagavi

Bengaluru: Karnataka’s Congress government on Wednesday termed the Union government’s decision to declare Madurai Airport as an international airport “discriminatory”, pointing to pending demands for a similar status for airports in the state.

State’s industries and infrastructure development minister MB Patil said the Centre had not taken a similar decision on upgrading Hubballi Airport and Belagavi Airport despite repeated requests from the state government.

“This reflects a discriminatory approach and is not acceptable,” Patil said, adding that the decision appeared to have been taken keeping the upcoming Tamil Nadu assembly elections in mind.


Patil said the state government had written to civil aviation minister K Ram Mohan Naidu in June last year seeking international airport status for Hubballi and Belagavi, saying the move would significantly benefit the North Karnataka region.

He also urged Union minister and Dharwad MP Pralhad Joshi, Belagavi MP Jagadish Shettar and Haveri MP Basavaraj Bommai to raise the issue with the Centre and press for the state’s demand.

“At least one of the two airports—Hubballi or Belagavi—should be declared an international airport. If both are upgraded, it would be even more welcome. The Centre must recognise the state’s requirement,” he said.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday approved the declaration of Madurai Airport as an international airport.

According to an official statement, Madurai Airport is one of the oldest airports in Tamil Nadu and serves as a key gateway to southern parts of the state. The airport plays an important role in promoting tourism and pilgrimage, contributing to the region’s overall economic growth.

“Elevating Madurai Airport to international status will enhance regional connectivity, promote trade and drive economic development. The airport’s potential to attract international pilgrims and businesses aligns with the city’s historical prominence,” the statement said.