Begumpet airport likely to be reopened

Hyderabad: Following approval of proposal by the cabinet, made by Union Minister of aviation, there are chances that Begumpet Airport will be revived. Reopening of Begumpet airport or operation of local flights was prevented saying that more than one airport within the distance of 150 kms is against Airport Aviation Policy. Union cabinet has amended Civil Aviation Policy a couple of days ago and as per the new policy announced, there is provision for more than one airport within the distance of 100 kms.

If Telangana government sincerely moves to the centre with regard to reopening of Begumpet airport, then it can become the first state to utilise the amendment in Civil Aviation Policy. It must be noted that the old Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad has the best infrastructure even today.

It remains to be seen whether KCR who presents himself as the great admirer of Nizam Osman Ali Khan, will revive the airport built by the Nizam.

The Begumpet airport was shut down for commercial operations after the Shamsabad airport was inaugurated in March 2008. It is currently used for chartered flights.

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