The Indian government is planning to build or expand over 50 airports in smaller cities over the next five years. This new initiative, developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), aims to improve airport infrastructure across various projects by 2030.
The move comes as domestic air travel in India is booming. On September 2, domestic air traffic reached a new high with over 477,000 passengers, surpassing the previous record.
A key project is Bihta, which will serve as the second airport for Patna, Bihar. The foundation ceremony is set for late 2024. Once finished, it will have over 60 check-in counters, 15 self-check-in kiosks, and will handle 3,000 passengers at peak times, with an annual capacity of 5 million passengers over the next 20 years.
The plan also includes new airports in Gujarat, such as Ankleshwar and Dwarka.
Pragya Priyadarshini from Primus Partners noted that as new industries and infrastructure develop in these regions, there will be increased demand for better air connectivity.
Additionally, the government will develop new civil enclaves at some air force stations, including Thanjavur, Hasimara, and Thoise.
Some existing airports will also be upgraded to support larger aircraft, such as narrow-body Airbus A320s at Agatti and Pantnagar airports, and Mysuru airport will expand its operations.
As air traffic grows, airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa Air are preparing by adding over 1,600 new aircraft to their fleets by the end of the decade.
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