INS Rajali, Naval air station in Arakkonam, India
INS Rajali is a naval air station in Arakkonam equipped with operational facilities including one of Asia's longest military runways. The base functions as a helicopter training center where pilots from the Navy and Coast Guard receive instruction.
The airfield was built in 1942 for Allied operations during World War II, with the Indian Air Force conducting support missions from the site. Decades later it was converted into a specialized naval helicopter training facility.
The station takes its name from a local bird species, chosen during its inauguration in 1992 by President R. Venkataraman following Indian naming customs. This connection to regional wildlife remains visible through the site's identity and symbolism.
Keep in mind this is an active military base where access is restricted to certain areas. Plan ahead to understand what is accessible to visitors, as some sections may require special permission or have limited visiting windows.
During the 2015 South India floods, the station served as an emergency civilian airport when Chennai International Airport shut down due to water damage. This unexpected role demonstrated the site's importance beyond its regular military purpose.
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