India is planning a massive expansion of its aviation infrastructure, aiming to establish 350 to 400 airports across the country in the coming decades, according to Civil Aviation Minister Naidu. This ambitious vision is part of the government’s strategy to meet the growing demand for air travel and to support economic growth by enhancing regional connectivity.
Minister Naidu emphasized that the plan is aligned with India’s goal to become a global aviation hub, catering to both domestic and international passengers. The expansion will focus not only on increasing the number of airports but also on upgrading existing facilities, enhancing passenger amenities, and modernizing air traffic management systems. This initiative aims to make air travel more accessible, affordable, and efficient for the vast population of India, including those in remote and underserved areas.
The minister highlighted that the government’s emphasis on regional connectivity schemes like UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) has already contributed to a sharp increase in the number of operational airports in recent years. By scaling up this effort, India aims to link more regions to the national and global air network, boosting tourism, trade, and investment.
The plan also aligns with the government’s broader economic objectives, which include promoting ‘Make in India’ by fostering the development of an indigenous aviation industry. This involves encouraging private investment in airport infrastructure, aircraft manufacturing, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services.
With the civil aviation sector projected to witness exponential growth in the coming years, the plan to develop 350 to 400 airports represents a transformative vision for India’s future. It underscores the government’s commitment to building a robust, efficient, and sustainable aviation ecosystem that supports the country’s aspirations for economic development and global connectivity.
