Once a WWII base, Tamil Nadu revives Chettinad Airport to aviation training hub

Chennai: The Tamil Nadu government has initiated preliminary steps to convert the Chettinad Airport into a multi-purpose aviation hub, with a focus on pilot training and emerging aviation activities such as drone testing.

The State government has issued a tender inviting private participation to develop infrastructure for the proposed Chettinadu Aeronadu Aviation Hub. The airport, officially known as Karaikudi–Kanadukathan Airport, is located in Karaikudi Taluk of Sivaganga district.

According to sources, the government is considering offering the Chettinad airstrip to Flying Training Organisations (FTOs), along with facilities for drone testing and aviation-related activities. This move is part of Tamil Nadu’s broader effort to expand its aviation ecosystem beyond commercial airports.

Chettinad Airport is expected to become the third airstrip in the State to be allocated for flying training activities. In 2023, EKVI Aviation received approval to operate Tamil Nadu’s first Flying Training Organisation from Salem Airport. The State government is also planning to provide the Kovilpatti airstrip for a similar purpose.

Although the land surrounding the Chettinad airstrip is currently barren, sources said the runway remains in usable condition, with no major structural damage. The airstrip has two small runways, which could be adapted for training aircraft and other light aviation operations.

The Chettinad airstrip has strong historical significance. During World War II, it was used by the British as a military airbase. Fighter aircraft of the Royal Air Force, including DC-3s, Hawker Hurricanes and Spitfires, used the airstrip for refuelling and reloading bombs. A helipad also existed at the base during that period.

Even before the war, the airstrip played a role in India’s early aviation history. In the 1930s, it was home to one of the country’s first flying clubs. Later, in 1953, it served as a primary hub airport for Jupiter Airlines, which was operated by industrialist and educationist Alagappa Chettiar, founder of the Alagappa Group of Educational Institutions.

With renewed government focus and private sector participation, the Chettinad Airport is now being positioned to regain relevance, this time as a centre for aviation training and new-age aerospace activities