Shivamogga Airport Faces Closure Threat as DGCA License Nears Expiry

Shivamogga: The Airport in Shivamogga located near Sogane, central Karnataka’s sole airport, is facing imminent closure due to severe safety and infrastructure shortcomings, according to a report.  The airport, which was inaugurated in February last year, may have its flight operation license revoked by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) by the end of this month.

The DGCA, which issued the license for flight operations, has set a deadline of September 23 for the Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (KSIIDC), responsible for managing the airport, to address these critical issues. Failure to do so could result in the DGCA refusing to renew the license, casting a shadow over the airport’s future.

The situation is particularly alarming as the DGCA had already extended the airport’s operational license once, following its initial expiration on August 23. This extension, however, was granted for just one month, with strict instructions to rectify the identified safety and infrastructure deficiencies. With only 19 days left before the new deadline, concerns are mounting over the airport’s ability to comply with the DGCA’s directives.

Key Issues Threatening the Airport’s Future

Despite being the only airport under state government management, Sogane Airport has faced significant challenges in meeting the DGCA’s safety and security standards. Among the issues cited are inadequate runway safety measures, delays in procuring essential safety equipment, and a shortage of uniforms for technical staff. Additionally, the airport has yet to establish a Quick Reaction Team (QRT), a critical component of its emergency preparedness plan.

These deficiencies have led the DGCA to question the airport’s ability to safely handle flight operations, making the likelihood of license renewal increasingly slim. The potential closure would not only impact the airport but also hinder regional connectivity and economic growth in the area.

Government Response

Responding to the crisis, District In-charge Minister Madhu Bangarappa acknowledged the severity of the situation, noting that the license renewal deadline is fast approaching. He confirmed that the issue has been brought to the attention of Minister M.B. Patil, with efforts underway to address the DGCA’s concerns.

Local Member of Parliament B.Y. Raghavendra also weighed in, revealing that out of the 14 recommendations made by the DGCA, 12 have been implemented. However, critical gaps remain, particularly in areas such as fire safety and runway maintenance. Despite these efforts, the state government’s response may be too little, too late to prevent the airport’s closure.

As the deadline looms, the future of Shivamogga’s Sogane Airport hangs in the balance, with the prospect of closure threatening to disrupt regional air travel and economic development in Karnataka.