News Brief
Terminal Expansion, Green Hydrogen Plant, Aviation Business Park—Cochin Airport Operator CIAL Focusing On Multiple Growth Opportunities
Cochin International Airport Ltd (Image: Association of Private Airport Operators)
Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) has laid out an expansive roadmap for the current fiscal, with projects ranging from a pioneering green hydrogen plant to the commissioning of a landmark canal system.
According to a New Indian Express report, subsidiaries like CIL and CIASL are also steering major initiatives in infrastructure, tourism, and aviation services.
West Coast Canal Project
CIAL Infrastructures Ltd (CIL), a fully owned arm of CIAL, is spearheading the West Coast Canal project — a 590 km waterway running along Kerala’s coastline from Kovalam to Bekal.
The first phase, covering a 235 km stretch from Akkulam in Thiruvananthapuram to Chettuva in Thrissur, is expected to be commissioned in January.
As part of the scheme, CIL is creating a unique light-and-sound experience aboard an electric boat through the 150 year old Chilakkoor Waterway Tunnel near Varkala.
While certain sections of the canal face minor land-acquisition hurdles, the tourism-linked attractions remain on schedule for launch this fiscal.
Aviation Business Park
Cochin International Aviation Services Ltd (CIASL) is building a 33,500 sqft business park, set to house co-working spaces for 300 people, training classrooms, a seminar hall and a restaurant.
Green Hydrogen Milestone
In collaboration with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), CIAL has completed construction of the world’s first airport-based green hydrogen plant and filling station.
The 1,000-kilowatt facility, with four electrolysers, will produce 200kg of hydrogen daily. Initially, the fuel will power airport vehicles, with commercial rollout planned once hydrogen-fuelled vehicles become more common in Kerala.
Terminal 3 Expansion
CIAL’s flagship T3 terminal is undergoing a major upgrade, including eight new aerobridges and expanded commercial areas in the international waiting hall.
The expansion is on track for completion by year-end, aimed at enhancing passenger convenience and increasing non-aeronautical revenues.
