Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Scraps Parandur Airport Plan

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has announced the cancellation of the proposed Parandur airport project. During a legislative assembly session on August 24, 2026, he revealed that his government will now look for other locations to build a new Chennai airport.

Vijay stated that a new Terminal 5 will be developed at the northwest area of Chennai airport in collaboration with the Airports Authority of India (AAI). This terminal will include an approach road and a flyover to enhance facilities until the new airport is built.

The DMK, the main opposition party, tried to discuss the issue but was blocked by the Speaker. The Speaker cited Rule 110, which prevents debates on unsolicited announcements. Some members walked out in protest.

Vijay explained that he consulted experts and identified alternative sites for the new airport after visiting Parandur in 2025. He emphasized that no site will be chosen without ensuring minimal harm to farmland and human settlements.

Currently, Chennai airport handles 30 million passengers annually. Once Terminal 3 is completed, this number will rise to 35 million, and with Terminal 5, it will increase by another 55 million annually. Vijay stressed that building an airport at Parandur would damage farmland and settlements, which his government aims to avoid.

The Chief Minister also announced new benefits for women travelers and financial support for LPG cylinders under the Tamil Nadu government’s initiatives.