Overview
- The Union Cabinet on March 10 approved the declaration of Madurai Airport as an international airport.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the move on X, saying it will boost tourism, trade and economic opportunities in southern Tamil Nadu.
- Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said multiple airlines have expressed interest in launching international services from Madurai.
- Officials highlighted benefits for pilgrimage travel to sites such as the Meenakshi Amman Temple and Rameswaram, alongside gains for industry, education and healthcare access.
- Reports said Madurai would become the third international airport in Tamil Nadu once implemented, aligning with the government’s broader goal of expanding India’s network toward 350 airports by 2047.