In the 12th five-year plan period (2012-17), union government plans to set up 17 airports. Specifically, the government plans to build airports in Gulbarga, Bijapur, Hassan, Shimoga, Aranmula, Kannur, Karaikal.
In addition, three new airports are planned in Maharashtra, including one each at Sindhudurg and Navi Mumbai.
It may be recalled that the government introduced a new policy for greenfield airports in 2008. The policy waived mandatory approval from the central government for setting up of any greenfield airport.
The entry of more private players and the opening up of more airports became easier than before because of this policy.
The government also set up the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority in 2008. The body was mandated to look at the capital expenditure incurred and timely investments in airport facilities apart from looking at the services provided and their quality.
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