DHNS
 
Bangalore, May 26: The HAL Airport may have wound up the flight operations following opening up of the new Bengaluru International Airport at Devanahalli. But there are still chances of the HAL Airport becoming functional.
 
The High Court has set a 12 week deadline for reconsidering the agreement reached with the Bangalore International Authority Limited (BIAL) by the State government. “Considering the developments in the civil aviation sector during the last three years, the State Government will also attempt to revive the HAL airport”, sources told Deccan Herald.

The sources informed that around 400 flights were being operated annually from Bangalore when the agreement was reached with the BIAL about three years ago. “But now around 700 flights are being operated and in the days to come, the number will go up further. From the travellers point of view, it is advisable to have more than one airport.

Different opinion

The Principal Secretary to Department of Industry and Infrastructure V P Baligar has taken a serious view of the court direction to renegotiate with the BIAL. Moreover the experts will also conduct a study on the capacity of the new airport after it becomes fully operational. Considering the views of air travellers and also the aviation experts necessary steps will be initiated”, the sources revealed.

Meanwhile when contacted, Baligar gave the indication that the renegotiations would be held with the BIAL once the new government assumed office in the State. “Considering the legal and also commercial aspects, a suitable decision will be taken,” he observed.

Soft stance

Baligar pointed out that going by the statements of BIAL Chief Executive Officer Albert Brunner, the latter appeared to have softened his stand on operating the HAL airport. “He may positively respond to the negotiations”, Baligar expressed confidence.

At present only the first phase of the international airport has been completed. In case the pressure increases on the airport, the government may think of operating smaller flights from the HAL airport, the sources stated.

The demand by the IT/BT companies to operate the HAL airport is also likely to come up before the next board meeting of the BIAL.