Cabinet approves Madurai international airport status ahead of Tamil Nadu polls

New Delhi: Ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections scheduled this year, the Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved a proposal to declare Madurai Airport as an international airport, a move expected to boost global connectivity to the temple city.Once the status change is implemented, Madurai will become the third international airport in Tamil Nadu.

Briefing reporters about the Cabinet’s decision, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vashno said the decision was taken keeping in mind the wishes of the people of Madurai.“Madurai is a famous city in Tamil Nadu,” Vishno said, adding that the policy decision to grant international status to the airport will help expand air connectivity to the city from various parts of the world.He said the area has large industrial clusters and the move will enhance Madurai’s role as an education and healthcare hub.Vishno also noted that several airlines have shown interest in expanding international operations from the airport.Madurai Airport is one of the oldest airports in Tamil Nadu and currently handles domestic flights. Officials said upgrading it to international status would enhance regional connectivity and support trade and economic activity in surrounding areas.According to an official release, the decision is also likely to attract international pilgrims and businesses, given Madurai’s longstanding cultural and historical importance.The airport will also improve connectivity to major pilgrimage sites including Meenakshi Amman Temple, Koodal Azhagar Temple, Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple, Palamudhircholai Murugan Temple and Rameswaram.