New Delhi, March 10 -- The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday approved declaration of Madurai Airport as an International Airport, a move expected to enhance regional connectivity and boost economic development in southern parts of the state.

Announcing the decision, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the upgrade reflects the aspirations of people in the region and will significantly transform Madurai's development prospects.

"The three largest cities in Tamil Nadu are Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. People aspire to have an international airport here. Keeping Madurai's aspirations in mind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the decision in the Union Cabinet to approve Madurai Airport as an Internat...