Union Cabinet approves international status for Madurai airport

• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the declaration of Madurai airport in Tamil Nadu as an International Airport.

• Madurai airport is one of the oldest airports in Tamil Nadu.

• The decision will help bring air connectivity from various parts of the world to the temple city, and there is a huge industrial cluster around it.

• Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said multiple airlines have shown interest in expanding their international flights from the airport.

• Elevating Madurai airport to an international status would enhance regional connectivity, promote trade, and drive economic development in the region. 

• The airport’s potential to attract international pilgrims and businesses aligns with the city’s historical prominence.

• It would also improve connectivity to important pilgrimage destinations — Meenakshi Amman temple, Koodal Azhagar temple, Thirupparankundram Murugan temple, Palamudhircholai Murugan temple and Rameswaram.

• The decision would also strengthen the city’s role as an educational and healthcare hub.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)