The push to upgrade Belagavi Airport to international status has gained momentum after Belagavi MP and former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar wrote to the Union Civil Aviation Ministry seeking the upgrade.
In response, Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu stated that the proposal can be considered, subject to the fulfillment of key infrastructure and operational requirements.
In his letter dated March 12, 2026, the Minister explained that granting international status to an airport involves a structured process based on several critical factors. These include sufficient runway length, installation of an Instrument Landing System (ILS), adequate airfield lighting, and essential facilities such as immigration, health services, and animal and plant quarantine systems.
He also noted that passenger traffic, demand for international travel, and airline interest in operating such routes are important considerations in the decision-making process.
The issue was taken up by MP Shettar following earlier correspondence, including inputs from Karnataka’s Industries Minister M. B. Patil. Shettar had also met the Union Minister and submitted a formal request letter on February 3, 2026.
In a press release, Shettar said the Centre’s response was encouraging, but stressed the need to develop the required infrastructure and demonstrate adequate demand. He expressed optimism that with coordinated efforts, Belagavi Airport could attain international status in the coming years.
