Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru is moving ahead with a major expansion plan designed to meet future passenger demand and strengthen Bengaluru’s position in global aviation. Bangalore International Airport Limited has prepared a long-term strategy focused on increasing capacity, improving passenger experience, and supporting the city’s growing international connectivity. The expansion of Terminal 2 (T2) and upgrades to Terminal 1 (T1) form the foundation of this next phase of growth.
The T2 Phase 2 expansion is expected to add capacity for 20 million passengers annually, increasing Terminal 2’s total handling capacity to around 45 million passengers. At the same time, the refurbishment of Terminal 1 is planned to add another 10 million passengers annually. Once both projects are completed, the airport’s total passenger handling capacity is projected to reach nearly 80 million passengers per year by 2029.
The expansion includes an additional built-up area of 2.78 lakh square metres, 40 new aircraft parking stands, and a dedicated 28,000-square-metre passenger walkway connecting T1 and T2. These developments are expected to improve operational efficiency, reduce transfer times, and enhance the overall passenger experience. The larger investment plan, estimated between ₹17,000 crore and ₹20,000 crore, reflects the scale of Bengaluru’s growing aviation ambitions.
As of early 2026, the T2 Phase 2 project has progressed into the execution stage, with tenders already floated and construction activities moving forward. The completion target remains late 2029.
Terminal 2 has already handled around 25 million passengers since opening and is approaching its current operational capacity. This strong passenger growth highlights Bengaluru’s increasing importance as a domestic and international travel hub and reinforces the need for timely expansion to support future demand.
Several major airside upgrades are also underway to improve aircraft movement efficiency across the airport. A western cross-field taxiway, expected to be completed during the first half of 2026, will connect the airport’s two runways. This infrastructure is expected to reduce aircraft taxi times, improve turnaround efficiency, and help lower fuel consumption.
In addition, BIAL has initiated tenders for a new Air Traffic Control tower and advanced flight data systems. These upgrades are aimed at supporting higher aircraft movement volumes while improving operational coordination and air traffic management capabilities.
The airport expansion is being supported by major infrastructure developments across Bengaluru. The airport metro connection under the Blue Line, particularly the Hebbal-to-airport section, is expected to become operational by September 2026. This is likely to improve accessibility, reduce travel time for passengers, and strengthen public transport connectivity to the airport.
A large Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility by Air India, spread across 1.5 million square feet, is also expected to begin operations in early 2026. The facility is expected to strengthen Bengaluru’s aviation ecosystem by supporting wide-body aircraft maintenance and generating long-term industry opportunities.
BIAL is also focusing on expanding Bengaluru’s international aviation presence by targeting stronger global connectivity, especially with regions such as Korea and China. The airport is additionally exploring transit opportunities between Australia and Europe, positioning Bengaluru as an emerging international transit and aviation hub.
Alongside aviation growth, BIAL is working with the Karnataka Tourism Department to support tourism growth across the state. Improved international and domestic connectivity is expected to contribute to tourism, business travel, investment opportunities, and broader economic development across Karnataka.
1. What is the capacity target of Bengaluru Airport after expansion?
Kempegowda International Airport aims to reach nearly 80 million passengers annually after the Terminal 2 Phase 2 expansion and Terminal 1 upgrades are completed by 2029.
2. What upgrades are planned for Terminal 2 at Bengaluru Airport?
Terminal 2 Phase 2 will add 20 million passenger capacity, 40 aircraft parking stands, expanded terminal space, and a passenger walkway connecting T1 and T2.
3. When will the Bengaluru Airport Terminal 2 expansion be completed?
The Terminal 2 Phase 2 expansion at Kempegowda International Airport is expected to be completed by late 2029 following ongoing construction and tender execution.
4. How will the Bengaluru airport metro improve connectivity?
The Blue Line airport metro connection is expected to reduce travel time, improve public transport access, and strengthen connectivity between Bengaluru city and the airport.
5. What aviation infrastructure projects are planned at Bengaluru Airport?
Planned infrastructure upgrades include a new ATC tower, western cross-field taxiway, advanced flight systems, expanded aircraft stands, and a large Air India MRO facility.
