India’s domestic air passenger traffic is expected to soar to 300 million by 2030, with an investment of approximately $11 billion earmarked for airport development, Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu announced on Monday. Speaking at a conference organized by the French Aerospace Industries Association (GIFAS) in New Delhi, Naidu emphasized India’s position as one of the world’s fastest-growing civil aviation markets.
Significant Expansion of Airports and Fleet Capacity
The minister highlighted that airlines are expanding their fleets and networks to accommodate rising demand. Currently, India boasts 157 airports, heliports, and waterdromes, with plans to develop an additional 200 airports over the next 20 to 25 years. The number of operational airports is projected to reach 200 by the end of 2025, demonstrating significant growth in the sector.
Strengthening Global Collaboration in Sustainable Aviation
Naidu also noted the potential for collaboration between India and France in developing a robust global Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) supply chain, further underscoring the opportunities for partnership between the two nations. The initiatives aimed at enhancing the aviation infrastructure reflect India’s commitment to meeting the growing demands of air travel while prioritizing sustainability in the aviation sector. With these developments, India aims to solidify its standing as a key player in global aviation.