According to Indian Times, India’s Civil Aviation Minister, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, has announced a plan to expand the country’s airport network to a total of 350 by the year 2047. This represents a significant increase from the current number of 162 airports, more than doubling the existing infrastructure.
The announcement was made during the Eastern Region Ministers’ Conference on Civil Aviation, where the minister highlighted the rapid growth of the civil aviation sector and its importance to the country’s economy. He emphasised that the central government will support state governments in developing aviation infrastructure to achieve this ambitious target.
Over the past 11 years, 88 new airports have been developed, particularly in tier-two and tier-three cities, reflecting a strategic focus on improving regional connectivity and promoting development beyond major metropolitan areas. The expansion plan is seen as a way to enhance mobility, meet rising passenger and cargo demand, and support economic growth in smaller cities and regions.
The initiative is aligned with India’s broader vision for a developed nation, with aviation positioned as a key driver of economic integration and regional development. By increasing the number of airports, the government aims to create jobs, stimulate local economies, and provide greater accessibility across the country.
This long-term target also underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its civil aviation sector to meet future demand, accommodate a growing number of passengers, and maintain competitiveness in the global aviation market. The focus on regional airports ensures that development is not limited to major cities but extends to smaller urban centres, fostering balanced economic growth throughout the country.
