Should the Old HAL Airport in Bengaluru Be Reopened for Domestic Flights, or Shall We Focus on Completing the Rail Connection?
The HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) airport, situated within the bustling city of Bengaluru, is a topic of intense debate among aviation enthusiasts and policymakers alike. The recent handover of the airport to BIAL (Build India Limited), a company established to manage the newly constructed Bengaluru International Airport (BIAL), has brought to the fore the question of whether the old HAL airport should be reopened for domestic flights. This article explores the pros and cons of this proposal, emphasizing the need to prioritize completing the rail connection to BIAL as a more urgent and beneficial move.
Overview of HAL and BIAL Airports
Bengaluru, often referred to as the Silicon Valley of India, is a hub of technological innovation and a major commercial center. The city’s aviation infrastructure plays a crucial role in supporting its economic growth. The old HAL airport, while a historical landmark, is no longer equipped to handle the demands of modern air travel. Conversely, BIAL, the newly built international airport, offers state-of-the-art facilities, security, and operational efficiency. The transfer of HAL to BIAL raises questions about the future of domestic flights from the older airport.
Benefits of Reopening HAL Airport
One of the arguments in favor of reopening the old HAL airport is the potential revenue it could generate. HAL, as a historic entity, may still be involved in manufacturing and testing aircraft. Allowing commercial flights at the old airport could provide a steady income stream, which can be crucial for supporting the employment and operations of HAL. Additionally, the airport could serve as an important link for local and regional flights, providing convenience to passengers and supporting the local economy.
Challenges and Concerns
However, the current state of the old HAL airport poses significant challenges. The facilities are outdated, and the operational efficiency is likely to lag behind that of BIAL. Reopening the old airport would mean extending resources and efforts to modernize it, which is not a cost-effective solution. Moreover, the old airport is far from the city center, requiring longer travel times for passengers, which could affect their overall experience.
Focus on Improving Rail Connection to BIAL
A more pragmatic approach would be to prioritize the completion of the rail connection to BIAL. This infrastructure project is critical for improving the accessibility and convenience of the new airport. Currently, delays in the rail connection have hindered the full realization of BIAL’s potential. Ensuring that the rail connection is operational by mid-2022 could provide travelers with a seamless and efficient transit option, thereby enhancing the overall passenger experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the thought of reopening the old HAL airport is tempting, the urgency and long-term benefits of completing the rail connection to BIAL outweigh the short-term gains of using the older facility. Focusing on improving accessibility and reducing travel times for passengers would make BIAL a more attractive and viable option for both domestic and international flights. This strategic move would not only support the economic growth of Bengaluru but also enhance the national aviation infrastructure.