(a) whether the Government proposes to introduce flights from Madurai and Tiruchirapalli airports to South East Asian countries;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the steps taken by the Government to improve the infrastructure facilities in Madurai, Coimbatore, Tiruchirapalli, Salem and Tuticorin airports?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION ( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )
(a) and (b):The designated airlines of ASEAN member states viz. Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and Brunei have an unlimited access to 18 tourists destnations in India including Tiruchirapalli. However, Madurai is not available as point of call to the designated airlines of any foreign country at present. As far as Indian carriers are concerned, they are free to mount services from any point in India to foreign destinations as per the respective bilateral air services arrangements.
(c)
(i)At Coimbatore, Madurai and Tiruchirapalli airports, the runways have been extended and are equipped with Instrumental Landing System. Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruchirapalli, Salem and Tuticorin airports are equipped with Aeronautical Ground lights, navigational aids and all weather operations.
(ii) The existing aprons at Coimbatore and Madurai airports have been strengthened / expanded. At Tiruchirapalli, Salem and Tuticorin, the aprons allow for parking of 7,2 and 1 aircraft respectively.
(iii)At Madurai and Tiruchirapalli, construction of new Integrated Terminal Complex has been completed. At Coimbatore airport, there is a proposal for construction of a new Integrated Terminal Building Complex. The Terminal Building at Salem and Tuticorin are suitable for handling 100 and 75 passengers respectively, at a time.