Mangaluru International Airport has commenced a major expansion of its integrated terminal to accommodate rising passenger traffic and strengthen regional air connectivity. The project aims to increase the airport’s annual passenger handling capacity from 2.5 million to 5.2 million by the end of 2029.
The expansion will add 27,100 square metres of built-up area on the eastern side of the existing terminal, which currently spans 48,574 square metres. The project will also involve modifications to the existing terminal infrastructure.
The airport handled a record 2.55 million passengers during the 2025-26 financial year, exceeding its originally planned capacity. Passenger traffic has grown nearly 42% over the past three years, rising from 1.79 million in 2022-23.
The expansion will improve passenger processing facilities, including check-in counters, security screening, immigration, baggage handling and arrival and departure areas.
The project also includes plans for a public viewing gallery and an open-air recreational area overlooking the airfield and Gurupura River valley.
Additionally, a multifunctional building is proposed, featuring multi-level parking for more than 800 vehicles, office spaces, passenger amenities, food outlets and recreational facilities. A dedicated pedestrian bridge with travelators and buggy services will connect the building to the terminal.
The expansion is expected to improve operational efficiency and support growing demand for air travel across coastal Karnataka. The airport anticipates passenger traffic crossing four million annually by 2030-31.
The project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2029.
