The push to upgrade Belagavi Airport to international status has gained momentum after Belagavi MP and former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar formally wrote to the Union Civil Aviation Ministry seeking the same.
Responding to his letter, Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu has clarified that the proposal can be considered, but only after meeting key infrastructure and operational requirements.
In his communication dated March 12, 2026, the Minister stated that converting an airport into an international facility is a structured process that depends on multiple critical factors. These include adequate runway length, installation of an Instrument Landing System (ILS), proper airfield lighting, and essential services such as immigration, health, and animal and plant quarantine facilities.
The Minister also highlighted that passenger traffic and demand for international travel, along with airline interest in operating such routes, play a decisive role in granting international status.
The matter was taken up by MP Shettar following earlier correspondence on the issue, including inputs from Karnataka’s Industries Minister M. B. Patil. Shettar had also met the Union Minister and submitted a formal request letter dated February 3, 2026.
In a press release, Shettar said that while the Centre has responded positively, the focus must now be on building the required infrastructure and demonstrating sufficient demand. He expressed confidence that with coordinated efforts, Belagavi Airport could achieve international status in the coming years.