Vellore Airport could be operational soon

The Vellore Airport in Tamil Nadu is nearing completion and could be operational soon. Started in 2016 under the UDAN scheme, it has faced many challenges. The 850-meter runway and terminal building were completed a year ago, but progress seemed stalled. Recent tests focused on air calibration and checked the visibility of landing lights. Five officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) were involved in the tests.

Precautions have been taken to remove any obstacles that could interfere with signals. The airport aims to get approval for operations by December this year. It is currently using a mobile control tower and has emergency services like fire tenders and an ambulance.

The facility is fully fenced, and high-resolution lights will be added for better security. Access roads have been built, and a passenger waiting area is in place. The airport can now accommodate 20-seater planes, upgraded from the original eight-seater capacity.