India is rapidly expanding its aviation infrastructure, adding new airports or upgrading existing facilities roughly every 45 to 50 days, Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu said. Speaking on January 4 after a validation flight at the upcoming Bhogapuram airport, the minister highlighted the scale and speed of the country’s aviation sector growth.
Fleet Expansion
India currently operates 843 aircraft, with 80 added in 2025 and another 106 expected in 2026. Additional aircraft are also planned by airlines such as Star Air. The government aims to build capacity ahead of demand to ensure the infrastructure can support the expanding market.
Major Airport Projects
Several key airport projects are progressing across the country:
- Jewar Airport (Delhi NCR): Opening soon
- Bhogapuram Airport (Andhra Pradesh): Expected a few months after Jewar
- Mumbai Third Airport: Planned following the operationalization of Navi Mumbai
- Delhi NCR Configuration: Delhi, Jewar, and Hindon airports to manage passenger and cargo traffic
- Bengaluru New Airport: Under consideration for future demand
Naidu noted that the National Capital Region will operate with three airports to manage growing passenger numbers and cargo movement efficiently.
Policy Measures and Connectivity
The government has lifted the 150-kilometre restriction on constructing second airports, allowing states more flexibility once existing airports reach full capacity. The Open Sky policy now applies to 18 airports, including Visakhapatnam, facilitating international connectivity and route development.
Regional Development Focus
Operations from Vizag airport will shift to Bhogapuram once the new facility opens, establishing a North Andhra-centric hub. Naidu emphasized that enhanced air connectivity is attracting multinational firms like Google, Cognizant, and TCS, supporting regional investment and economic growth.
Strategic Vision
The minister said the expansion aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to make India a major international aviation market. Strengthening aviation infrastructure is seen as a driver for economic activity, industry expansion, and broader international integration, while improving regional connectivity across the country.
