Indian government plans 50 new airports to transform smaller cities
What's the story
The Indian government is considering a five-year plan to establish 50 airports in smaller cities across the country.
This initiative comes as India's air passenger traffic approaches pre-COVID-19 levels, competing with volume growth from larger nations like the US and China.
On September 2, 2024, domestic air traffic hit a new high of 477,554 passengers, marking a 1.5% increase from the previous high on April 21, according to data from the civil aviation ministry.
Project management
AAI to oversee new airport projects
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is expected to supervise the establishment of these new airports.
The plan involves developing airport infrastructure for both existing and future projects over the next five years.
These projects could be undertaken by either central or state governments, or private entities.
Pragya Pridarshini, VP at management consulting firm Primus Partners, anticipates that air travel demand will increase in areas of India that are currently underserved and unserved.
Infrastructure expansion
Bihta airport: A new hub for Bihar
Bihta in Bihar is set to become the second airport for the state capital of Patna.
The construction of Bihta airport is scheduled to begin later this year, with a foundation stone-laying ceremony.
Upon completion, it will feature over 60 check-in counters and more than 15 self check-in kiosks.
The new airport is designed to handle up to 3,000 passengers during peak hours and accommodate five million passengers annually over a 20-year period.
National growth
Gujarat and other states to get new airports
The government's plan also includes the construction of two greenfield airports in Gujarat, specifically in Ankleshwar and Dwarka.
Additionally, civilian enclaves near air force stations such as Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, Thoise in Ladakh, and Hasimara in West Bengal are being considered.
The five-year plan may also involve upgrading existing airports to accommodate larger aircraft.
Currently, many smaller city airports only support turboprop operations.
Airport upgrades
Upgrades planned for Agatti and Pantnagar airports
Agatti Airport in Lakshadweep Islands is set to receive visual flight rules (VFR) operations for narrow-body jets like the Airbus A320s.
In Uttarakhand's Pantnagar, there are plans for an upgrade to instrument flight rules (IFR) for narrowbody jets.
Mysuru airport operations are also expected to receive a capacity upgrade to handle narrowbody jets.
These upgrades are part of the government's broader strategy to improve air connectivity and meet rising passenger demand in smaller cities across India.