Madurai Airport Begins 24-Hour Operations
Starting October 1, 2024, Madurai Airport, managed by the Airports Authority of India, has commenced 24-hour operations. This significant change aims to enhance connectivity and support the growth of both regional and national air traffic. The new schedule offers flexibility for airlines, medical flights, and general aviation, allowing for efficient planning and potential establishment of airline bases at the airport.
Event Highlights
An event was held at Madurai Airport to mark the start of round-the-clock operations. M. Suresh, Chairman of AAI, highlighted the strategic importance of this upgrade. The event was attended by notable figures including MPs Manickam Tagore and S. Venkatesan, and MLAs V. V. Rajan Chellappa and A.M.S.G. Ashokan.
Impact on Connectivity and Economy
Currently, Madurai Airport handles 248 scheduled flights weekly, connecting to major cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and international destinations such as Singapore and Dubai. With 24-hour operations, the airport expects to increase to 344 weekly movements in the winter of 2024. This expansion will improve connectivity, attract more airlines, and enhance passenger satisfaction.
The extended hours will also boost local businesses, create jobs, and stimulate the economy. The airport’s accessibility will attract tourists, benefiting Madurai’s cultural and religious tourism sector. Additionally, improved cargo handling will support businesses relying on air freight.
International and Medical Benefits
The 24-hour operations will facilitate international flights, as many prefer night operations from India. This change will also improve access to medical facilities and offer a night parking facility at the airport.
Overall, the transition to 24-hour operations positions Madurai Airport as a key transportation hub, meeting the demands of a growing travel market and contributing to regional development.
Doubts Revealed
Madurai Airport -: Madurai Airport is an airport located in the city of Madurai, which is in the southern part of India. It serves as a gateway for people traveling to and from this region.
24-hour operations -: 24-hour operations mean that the airport will be open and functioning all day and night without closing. This allows flights to arrive and depart at any time, making travel more flexible.
Connectivity -: Connectivity in this context refers to how well the airport is linked to other places through flights. Better connectivity means more flights to different destinations, making it easier for people to travel.
Air traffic growth -: Air traffic growth means an increase in the number of flights and passengers using the airport. This can lead to more business and economic activity in the area.
General aviation -: General aviation includes all flights that are not commercial airlines, such as private planes, charter flights, and medical flights. These flights can now plan better with the airport open 24 hours.
Cargo handling -: Cargo handling refers to the process of loading, unloading, and managing goods that are transported by air. With 24-hour operations, the airport can handle more cargo, benefiting businesses that rely on shipping goods.
Transportation hub -: A transportation hub is a central place where different types of transport come together, like buses, trains, and planes. Madurai Airport becoming a hub means it will be an important place for travel and transport in the region.
