Kerala govt begins transformation of Kochi Airport into complete aviation hub

The Kerala government has begun steps to transform Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) into a full-fledged aviation ecosystem, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Monday.

He was speaking while inaugurating the first phase of the CIAL Aero Park, a major new aviation infrastructure project. The Chief Minister said the development will be carried out in stages, with the second phase planned as an IT Park and the third phase as an Aero City. Both phases will be implemented soon.

Stressing the importance of adapting to changing times, he said CIAL’s strength lies in making timely decisions while continuing to provide world-class airport facilities. He added that CIAL is a strong example of how airports can drive economic and industrial growth.

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The Aero Park has been developed as a dedicated centre for aviation maintenance, training, and technical support services. Along with existing companies and MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) facilities, new infrastructure worth INR 101 crore has been created. This includes aircraft maintenance and parking bays, engine storage units, training halls, and classrooms.

The park has direct access to both the airport’s operational area and the city side, making it convenient for aviation operations and business activities. The project is expected to create around 2,000 direct jobs and nearly three times that number in indirect employment. The Aero Park will operate like a special economic zone, offering an integrated environment for aviation-related industries.

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During the event, the Chief Minister also inaugurated several key facilities. These include the CIASL Business Centre, built at a cost of INR 30 crore with 40,000 square feet of additional space, a technical services facility for airside operational safety, and an Aviation Breathing Apparatus Training Gallery for firefighter training. Construction of the third aircraft hangar, costing INR 45 crore, is currently underway.

He also launched the construction of two new safety training facilities, an Aviation Pressure-Fed Firefighting Facility and an Underwater Rescue Training Facility. The underwater rescue centre will be the first of its kind at any airport in India.

State Industries Minister P. Rajeeve said CIAL was the first airport in India to recover quickly from the Covid-19 crisis and return to profitability. He noted that business diversification played a key role in this turnaround. He added that CIAL has set a strong example in employee welfare, shareholder returns, and overall contribution to the state’s economic development.