Here's some important news for air passengers travelling to and from Bengaluru in February. Flight operations at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) will face temporary disruptions from February 5 to February 14, 2025. These changes are due to Aero India 2025, Asia's premier military aviation event, which is anticipated to attract many visitors and activities. Airspace restrictions at the airport will result in 47 hours of closures over 10 days.
According to reports, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued regarding airspace access at KIA. The airspace will be unavailable during specific hours on the following dates:
February 5-8: 9 AM to 12 noon and 2 PM to 5 PM
February 9: 9 AM to 12 noon
February 10: 9 AM to 12 noon and 2 PM to 4 PM
February 11-12: 12 noon to 3 PM
February 13-14: 9 AM to 12 noon and 2 PM to 5 PM
Schedule your flight plans accordingly to avoid any travel disruptions.
The 15th edition of Aero India is set to take place from February 10 to 14 at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru. The primary reason for these airspace restrictions is the preparations for the event, including rehearsals and highly anticipated aerial displays, as KIA is located near the venue.
Meanwhile, plans are in progress for a second airport in Bengaluru, which is expected to handle 100 million passengers annually, according to reports. Potential locations for the new airport include Kanakapura Road, Mysuru Road, Magadi, Doddaballapura, Dabaspet, and Tumakuru.
The Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL), which operates Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), has set a stipulation that no new international airport can be constructed within a 150 km radius until 2033. However, by starting the planning and development process now, it is possible for the new airport to be ready by 2033, in compliance with these regulations.
