The Maharashtra government is exploring Virar as the site for Mumbai’s proposed third airport, after the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Navi Mumbai International Airports. While Palghar was earlier announced as the site, the state is now also considering Virar and has accordingly initiated a study to decide which location is more suitable.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Friday that the government has asked for expert inputs before taking a final call. Speaking at a public rally in Nalasopara ahead of the civic elections, he said the study would compare Virar and Palghar in terms of long-term development.