Mumbai: Industry leaders have stressed the need for a second airport in Chennai, saying stronger aviation infrastructure will be critical to supporting the city’s economic growth, improving global connectivity and attracting future investments.
The issue was discussed during a panel discussion hosted by Super Chennai titled “A Global City Needs Global Connectivity – Why Chennai Needs a Second Airport Now.”
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Participants said Chennai has emerged as one of India’s leading centres for manufacturing, logistics, automobiles, healthcare and technology, making aviation infrastructure increasingly important for sustaining growth and competitiveness.
Speakers noted that rising passenger traffic and cargo volumes indicate the need for additional airport capacity. They said the proposed airport should be viewed as a strategic economic asset rather than merely a transportation project.
Mr. J. Krishnan, Partner, S Natesa Iyer Logistics LLP and Governing Council Member, Madras Chamber of Commerce and Industries, said, “Chennai enjoys a rare advantage as both a major port city and an aviation gateway. While we have successfully expanded our maritime infrastructure over the years, aviation infrastructure has not kept pace with the city’s growth. As Tamil Nadu strengthens its position in sectors such as electronics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, a second airport is no longer a choice—it is an economic necessity. We must act with urgency if Chennai is to remain globally competitive.”
Mr. V.K. Girish Pandian, President, Industrial Estate Manufacturers Association, Guindy, said connectivity remains a key factor in investment decisions.
“Connectivity plays a significant role in investment decisions. Chennai has built a strong manufacturing ecosystem over decades, but investors today compare infrastructure readiness across cities. A second airport can become a catalyst for new industrial clusters, logistics hubs, residential developments and employment opportunities, while strengthening Tamil Nadu’s attractiveness as an investment destination,” he said.
Mr. Vijay Gopalan, former CFO, AirAsia India, said the proposed airport would play an important role in supporting future economic growth.
“The second airport should not be viewed as a luxury project. It is essential infrastructure that will determine Chennai’s ability to attract investments, global capability centres, talent and future industries. Cities such as Singapore, Dubai and Bengaluru have demonstrated how aviation infrastructure can drive economic transformation. Chennai now has an opportunity to build an airport ecosystem that supports growth for the next three decades,” he said.
Mr. K. Phanindra Reddy, IAS (Retd.), highlighted the need for long-term planning and integrated infrastructure development.
“The issue is not merely about building another airport; it is about preparing Chennai for future demand. Capacity constraints are already becoming evident, and infrastructure projects of this scale require years of planning and execution. The second airport must be developed alongside supporting road, rail, metro and logistics infrastructure to maximise its economic impact and ensure Chennai does not lose further opportunities,” he said.
The panel also discussed the need for the proposed airport to be developed as a broader economic ecosystem featuring multimodal connectivity, cargo villages, air freight stations, MICE infrastructure, aviation-related industries and technology-enabled passenger services.
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Participants concluded that a second airport would be vital for supporting Chennai’s next phase of growth and strengthening its position as a major economic and investment destination. They said world-class aviation infrastructure would be essential as Tamil Nadu advances towards its trillion-dollar economy vision.
Super Chennai said its panel discussion series will continue as a monthly platform bringing together industry experts, policymakers and thought leaders to discuss issues affecting the city’s growth and development.
