The Tamil Nadu government has shortlisted two potential locations in Hosur, Krishnagiri district, for a new greenfield airport aimed at supporting the region’s growing manufacturing and logistics needs. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is expected to conduct a detailed feasibility study of the sites, both located within a 20 km radius, according to sources. The decision follows a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. Earlier, a joint team from AAI and Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) evaluated four proposed locations in September: Thogarai Agraharam, Shoolagiri, Dhasapalli, and a site near an existing private airstrip. Based on their interim report, the state has narrowed the options to two, with the area near the private airstrip likely to undergo further assessment. The government is open to negotiating the purchase of the airstrip, provided the private firm offers it at a reasonable price. Srivats Ram, Chairman of the CII Tamil Nadu State Council, emphasised the airport’s potential to boost regional business and logistics, fostering integration with Bengaluru and accelerating economic growth in districts like Dharmapuri and Salem. The airport is seen as a step toward creating a dynamic twin-city ecosystem and strengthening Tamil Nadu’s industrial footprint. Hosur, a long-standing automotive hub, has recently diversified into advanced manufacturing, electronics, and electric vehicles. The proposed airport, announced by Chief Minister Stalin in June, will span 2,000 acres and is designed to handle up to 30 million passengers annually. This initiative coincides with Karnataka’s plans to develop a second airport for Bengaluru, highlighting the competitive and collaborative growth ambitions of the neighbouring states. (TOI)