Rajahmundry: AAI authorities say that once the requisite land is handed over to them, it takes nearly two years to take up expansion of the runway in two phases. The cost of the expansion works of the runway is estimated to be between Rs 150 crore and Rs 200 crore.
They are also planning to expand the Apron and tenders were called for and contract was awarded and it takes a year to complete the work.
Once the runway gets expanded, it helps landing of big winged aircrafts like Boeing 767 and Airbus 320. More competitors help the air passengers to get air tickets at competitive fare. At present, about seven aircrafts are being run from the airport daily mainly between Hyderabad and Rajahmundry and vice versa. Jet Airways, Spice Jet and Tru Jet are the operators.
Airport Director GMS Rao said, “We have already started the spadework for expansion of the runway.” and once we get the requisite land, we will complete the project early."
