Recently, the Minister of Civil Aviation has granted in-principle approval for the establishment of a Greenfield airport in Kota, Rajasthan and Puri in Odisha.

What is a Greenfield Airport?

• A greenfield airport is a new aviation facility built from scratch on previously undeveloped land.
• The development of Greenfield airports is regulated by the Greenfield Airports (GFA) Policy, 2008.

• India’s first Greenfield airport built in the northeastern region is Pakyong Airport, located in Sikkim. 
• Key Characteristics
  • Land: Built on undeveloped or empty land, such as meadows or grasslands.
  • Construction: The project is created entirely from scratch, without the need for demolishing old structures, unlike brownfield projects which involve improving existing facilities.

Advantages of Greenfield Airports

• No Demolition Needed: Engineers do not have to spend time tearing down old buildings, making the construction process faster and more efficient.
• Improved Connectivity
  • Enhances regional and international air travel.
  • Helps decongest existing airports in urban areas.
• Economic Growth
  • Boosts local businesses, tourism, and employment.
  • Encourages investment and trade in surrounding regions.
• Environmental Benefits
  • Can be planned with eco-friendly measures like green energy and sustainable construction.
  • Reduces pollution and congestion compared to expanding older airports.

Key points of the New Greenfield Airports in Kota and Puri

• Kota Airport – A Key Development
  • Location: Kota, Rajasthan
  • Kota is a major educational and industrial hub.
  • The airport will cater to the growing population and economic activity in the Hadoti region.
• Puri Airport: Strengthening Religious Tourism
  • Puri, home to Lord Jagannath, is one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage sites.
  • Millions of devotees and tourists visit Puri every year, making air connectivity essential.
  • The airport will improve direct travel between Puri and major metropolitan cities.
  • This development aligns with the government’s goal of enhancing last-mile air connectivity.

Difference Between Greenfield and Brownfield Airports