Thoothukudi airport plans cargo terminal, flight training centre

With a cargo terminal and operation of Flight Training Organisation (FTO) in the pipeline and work on an Instrument Landing System (ILS) under way, Thoothukudi airport is gearing up for its next phase of its infrastructure expansion.

The airport will also observe Yatri Suvidha Diwas on Monday (June 15) with a series of passenger-centric and community outreach programmes, aimed at highlighting and creating awareness of initiatives made by Airports Authority of India (AAI).

According to a press statement, the airport has seen growth in passenger traffic, recording an increase of 33% in the last year, contributed by tourists, business travellers and investors.

The airport underwent a major upgrade in 2025 with a state-of-the-art terminal building with enhanced passenger capacity and extended runway to cater bigger aircrafts. At the airport, commissioning of a solar plant with a capacity of 300 kVA has also been completed in 2025, as part of obtaining four-star GRIHA rating, a certification representing sustainable, energy efficient and climate resilient built environments in India.

At present, works are under way for the installation of a Instrument Landing System (ILS), which will be completed by September 2026. The system will facilitate flight operations during adverse weather conditions and enhance safety of aircraft operations.

In addition, the development of a cargo complex is under way by converting the old terminal building to a cargo complex. Tender has been awarded and the work will begin soon. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has recently granted design approval for the facility, paving the way for faster implementation.

Also, operations of Flight Training Organisation (FTO) at the airport will commence soon, providing opportunities for students for Ab-Initio flight and ground training required to earn a Commercial Pilot Licence.

Yatri Suvidha Diwas will feature a variety of activities including blood donation camp, health check-up camp, airport awareness programme and guided airport visit, career guidance session and opportunities in aviation sector, competitions for school students and tree plantation drive.