The Tamil Nadu government is seeking approval from the Centre to proceed with a proposed airport at Manikaneri in Ramanathapuram district. The facility, planned across around 600 acres, is intended to improve air connectivity to Rameswaram and support tourism and economic activity in the region.

The Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) is preparing to approach the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation for site clearance, an initial regulatory approval required before airport development can begin at the selected location. The site was chosen after inspections by officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI).

Rameswaram is a major pilgrimage and tourist destination, attracting visitors to the Ramanathaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi, Arichalmunai and the memorial of former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Travellers currently depend largely on road and rail services to reach the town, while the State government announced the airport proposal in 2025 to strengthen regional connectivity.

Five locations, including Palankulam, Devipattinam, Kumbaram, Kalari and Manikaneri, were initially considered. Kumbaram and Manikaneri were shortlisted after a preliminary assessment, following which an AAI team inspected both sites at the request of the State government. Manikaneri was subsequently selected for the proposed airport.

The State government has permitted the project to proceed, and land acquisition work is under way. TIDCO’s planned application for site clearance is the next major step. The proposal continues despite the recent cancellation of a second airport planned for Chennai at Parandur in Kancheepuram district.

The proposed facility is expected to provide an additional transport option for residents and visitors travelling to Rameswaram and nearby destinations. However, details on construction costs, the project timeline and the start of flight operations have not been specified. For now, preparations are focused on land acquisition and securing the required clearance from the Centre.