Due to the huge increase in passenger traffic at Kolhapur Airport, the Airports Authority of India has taken up the work of developing the airport to increase capacity. The development project includes the construction of a new terminal building, strengthening of the existing runway, extension of the runway, construction of a new apron and isolation bay. Kolhapur Airport has been identified for RCS operation under the UDAN scheme and is currently connected to Hyderabad, Bangalore, Mumbai and Tirupati. Recently, the airport’s license was upgraded to 24*7 flight operations.
The new terminal building is being built on an area of 4,000 m2 and will be able to handle 300 passengers at peak times. With 10 check-in counters, the terminal will be equipped with all modern amenities for passengers. The building will be an energy efficient GRIHA four star rated building with sustainability features. The interiors of the terminal building will reflect the art and culture of the local culture and heritage. The grand arches in the front facade of the new terminal building are influenced and derived from commonly used arches in heritage structures such as Maharaja’s Palace, Bhavani Mandap, Panhala Fort of Kolhapur city.
More than 60% of the terminal building expansion work is complete and the building will be ready by March 31, 2023. The non-flight facility upgrade work is complete. In addition, a new air traffic control tower is also being built to accommodate future traffic growth. Part of the development activities is also a parking lot with a capacity for 110 cars and 10 buses.The city of Kolhapur is located on the banks of the Panchganga River and is surrounded by the Sahyadri mountain range. It is a city known for its historical forts, temples and royal places of former royal families.
Kolhapur is one of the most agriculturally advanced districts in Maharashtra and is known for being a leading district in the agricultural industry. It is also a pioneer in the production of engineering products, refined sugar and textiles. The new world-class airport terminal building will strengthen connections to this industrial city and boost the tourism industry in the region. Increased connectivity will not only create new job opportunities for the local community and provide access to better education and health facilities.
