Kalyani Emerges as Preferred Site for West Bengal’s Second Airport Near Kolkata

West Bengal could soon move closer to establishing a second airport near Kolkata, with Kalyani in Nadia district emerging as the preferred location for the proposed project. If developed, the airport could become a major infrastructure milestone for the state, enhancing regional connectivity and supporting the rapidly growing economic corridor in and around Kalyani.

According to reports, discussions have already taken place regarding the proposed airport, and land near Kalyani’s old wartime airstrip zone has been identified as a potential site. Strategically located around 45 kilometres from Kolkata Airport, Kalyani offers strong connectivity through NH-12, established rail networks, and its proximity to the Kolkata metropolitan region.

The proposed airport is expected to support the rapidly developing Kalyani–Haringhata belt, which has emerged as a major centre for education, healthcare, biotechnology, and industry. The region is home to important institutions such as AIIMS Kalyani and Kalyani University, along with several industrial clusters and research facilities. Improved air connectivity could potentially attract further investments and strengthen the region’s role as an emerging economic hub.

At present, West Bengal primarily depends on one major airport serving the Kolkata metropolitan area, despite rising passenger demand and growing economic activity in eastern India. In contrast, major metropolitan regions such as Delhi NCR, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are expanding through multi-airport systems to handle increasing aviation traffic and support urban growth.

A second airport near Kolkata could ease future capacity pressures, improve logistics, and strengthen Bengal’s connectivity with national and international destinations. It may also unlock fresh opportunities for industries, businesses, tourism, and employment across the region.

However, it is important to note that the project is still at an early stage. No official clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), environmental approval, or tender process has been announced so far.

If approved and implemented, the Kalyani Airport project could become one of the most significant infrastructure developments for West Bengal in the coming years, reshaping regional connectivity and strengthening the state’s long-term growth ambitions.