Kurnool: The Andhra Pradesh government has accelerated the establishment of a Flying Training Organisation at Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy Airport in Orvakal, Kurnool, by allocating Rs. 25.11 crore for the project.
This initiative, set to be the state's first, is part of the broader strategy outlined by the state Airports Development Corporation Limited (APADCL). Tenders were issued in December, with a submission deadline of January 22.
The Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy Kurnool Airport, inaugurated on March 28, 2021, by Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, was initially aiming to start direct flight operations to Bangalore, Visakhapatnam and Chennai under the UDAN 4 bid process.
Classified as '3C', the airport can accommodate turboprop aircraft like ATR-72 and Bombardier Q-400. It boasts of a 2,000-metre by 30-metre runway with four parking bays. In 2021, the finance ministry reviewed proposals from APADCL.
The hilly terrain of Orvakal is deemed ideal for adventure sports like paragliding. This aligns with APADCL's vision for an aero-sports facility at the airport. Kurnool's strategic proximity to Bengaluru, Vijayawada and Hyderabad positions it as an ideal hub for tourism and economic activities.
Introduction of air connectivity would enhance the appeal of Kurnool's renowned tourist destinations like the Nallamala Forest, Ahobilam, Belum Caves, Mahanandi, Mantralayam, Orvakal rock caves, Sangameshwaram, Kethavaram and Kalva Bugga.
This project aligns with the long-standing aspirations of the local populace.
AP finance minister Buggana Rajendranath explained the earlier plans for setting up south India's largest industrial park around the airport, at an estimated cost of Rs.800 crore. Discussions are ongoing for the setting up of a centre of excellence within the airport premises, alongside the flying training organisation and an aero-sports hub, as directed by the finance minister.
The finalisation of these projects is expected in the coming months.
A senior official from APADCL noted the deadline for submitting tenders is January 22. The bids will be thoroughly evaluated and the operating agency finalised accordingly, he added.
