On September 28, Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan announced that Kannur International Airport would undergo major changes within a year to become an aviation hub. The plan includes securing ‘point of call’ status and establishing a pilot training centre.
During the ceremony, Satheesan inaugurated a new international air‑cargo complex and a 4‑MW solar power project at the airport. He said the state government is making key decisions to develop Kannur and other Kerala airports into hubs that will boost the state’s GDP.
The lack of ‘point of call’ status has limited Kannur’s ability to operate international services, the CM said, and the government will work to resolve the issue. He noted that airlines such as Air India have ordered around 2,000 aircraft, which will create a pilot shortage. To address this, a pilot training centre will be set up at Kannur, along with plans for a helicopter pilot training centre, aircraft maintenance facilities and a simulator training centre.
Satheesan also highlighted a consultancy service launched at Cochin International Airport, which, he said, has the human resources to build airports at lower costs and secured a project at Durgapur within a month of its launch. He mentioned challenges with solar energy storage and the government’s plan for a common battery storage facility. The possibility of moving part of Kochi’s solar installation to Kannur was considered, and two roads connecting Kannur city to the airport will be expedited. The government will examine the suitability of 240 acres earmarked for a second runway and will find a permanent solution for residents’ land concerns within two months. The event was presided over by Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph, with several MPs and local officials in attendance.
