Cochin International Airport is a Public Authority Under RTI Act: Kerala High Court

The Kerala High Court held that Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) qualifies as a ‘public authority’ under the RTI Act and must disclose information accordingly.

The Court found that CIAL, though incorporated under the Companies Act, was substantially financed and controlled by government bodies. The Court noted that 6 of its 11 directors are ex officio government nominees, including the Chief Minister as Chairman.

Upholding earlier decisions of the State Information Commission and a single judge, the Court directed CIAL to comply with RTI norms within 15 days and imposed a ₹1 lakh cost for filing unauthorised appeals without board approval.

[M/S Cochin International Airport Limited v. The State Information Commission & Anr. and connected cases]