India is set to revolutionize its aviation sector with plans to construct 50 new airports over the next five years. Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu made the announcement at the World Economic Forum 2025, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to enhance connectivity, boost economic growth, and position itself as a global leader in aviation. The initiative is part of India’s broader strategy to strengthen its air transport infrastructure and meet the growing demand for air travel within the country and internationally.
Naidu shared that the government is working towards making Delhi (DEL) a major international aviation hub, with a focus on improving both domestic and international connectivity. The minister highlighted that strategic partnerships with international stakeholders and technological advancements would play a key role in realizing these ambitious plans. This vision includes not only expanding airports in major metropolitan cities but also building regional airports to connect smaller towns and cities, enabling more people to access air travel and contribute to regional development.
The ambitious plan comes at a time when India’s aviation industry is experiencing rapid growth, with air travel becoming increasingly accessible to the rising middle class. Naidu emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a robust aviation ecosystem, which includes the introduction of state-of-the-art facilities, eco-friendly practices, and enhanced passenger experiences.
While specific locations for the new airports were not disclosed, the aviation minister assured that the initiative would focus on improving infrastructure in underserved regions. He also noted that the expansion would help accommodate an expected surge in air traffic, both domestic and international, over the coming years. With India’s aviation market projected to become the third-largest in the world by 2030, this ambitious plan is expected to provide a much-needed boost to the country’s infrastructure and economy.
As the government ramps up efforts to transform the aviation sector, it’s clear that the future of air travel in India will be shaped by these far-reaching investments, setting the stage for a more connected and prosperous nation.