West Bengal Identifies Site for Kolkata’s Second Greenfield Airport
The West Bengal Government has identified nearly 2,000 acres of land in Kalyani, Nadia district, for the development of Kolkata’s second greenfield airport, marking a significant step toward expanding the state’s aviation infrastructure and enhancing regional connectivity.
The announcement was made by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, who stated that the proposed airport is intended to address the rising demand for air travel in and around Kolkata while supporting the state’s long-term economic growth.
According to government officials, the proposed site stretches from the rear of AIIMS Kalyani to Narapati Para in Simurali, under the Chakdaha Assembly constituency. The location offers convenient access to National Highway-12 (NH-12) and is situated approximately 60 kilometres from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, with a road travel time of around one hour.
Officials confirmed that preliminary soil testing has been completed and the land has been found suitable for airport development. The project is planned as a greenfield airport, to be constructed on previously undeveloped land, and is expected to include passenger terminals, cargo handling facilities, runways, and provisions for future expansion.
Once approved and developed, the new airport is expected to significantly enhance aviation capacity in the Kolkata metropolitan region and neighbouring districts. It is also expected to ease congestion at the existing airport while creating opportunities for additional domestic and international flight operations.
The proposed facility is anticipated to improve air connectivity for residents of Nadia and surrounding districts, while enabling airlines to expand their route networks across eastern India.
During a Transport Department event, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari also announced that West Bengal has joined the Central Government’s UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) Regional Connectivity Scheme, which is designed to improve regional air connectivity and make air travel more affordable and accessible.
In addition, the Chief Minister stated that the state has received support from the Central Government for airport expansion projects in Balurghat, Malda, and Purulia. These initiatives are expected to strengthen connectivity across West Bengal while promoting tourism, trade, and investment.
Highlighting the importance of aviation infrastructure, the Chief Minister noted that continued airport development would help attract more airlines, expand flight connectivity, and support the future growth of the state’s aviation sector.
About the Author
