In a Decade, India Emerges as the 3rd Largest Domestic Aviation Hub: Union Minister
Click to start listening
Kolkata, Dec 13 (NationPress) The Civil Aviation Minister, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, stated on Friday that over the past decade, India’s civil aviation sector has achieved remarkable growth, now ranking as the third largest domestic aviation hub globally. He emphasized the need to continue this momentum, overcome challenges, and aim for the title of number one domestic hub worldwide.
During the unveiling of the Centenary Celebrations Logo for Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, the minister described this event as a significant landmark in the history of Indian aviation. This historic airport, an achievement from the pre-Independence era, symbolizes the advancements and legacy of the nation’s civil aviation sector.
Speaking on the importance of Kolkata Airport, he remarked, "This airport has witnessed various historical phases, embodying the pre-Independence struggle and the country’s development in the post-Independence era. Today, under our Prime Minister's leadership, the airport sector has undergone significant transformation. Kolkata Airport has received special attention, with substantial enhancements in capacity, services, and state-of-the-art infrastructure over the past five years."
He noted that the nation has made swift progress in the civil aviation domain. "The expansion of airports, the increase in passenger capacity, the growth of airline fleets, and the surge in cargo operations have all advanced under the leadership of our Prime Minister. We are now the third-largest domestic aviation hub in the world, and it’s imperative that we continue to push forward, break through barriers, and elevate our civil aviation sector to achieve the goal of becoming the number one domestic hub globally," the minister asserted.
Reflecting on the transformative effects of the UDAN scheme, he stated, "The UDAN initiative has been a game changer in the civil aviation sector. In the past eight years, we have launched over 600 flights, serving millions of passengers. This scheme has turned the vision of 'Hawai Chappal in Hawai Jahaz' into reality.
Naidu added, "As we commemorate 100 years of Kolkata Airport, this moment serves as a source of inspiration and pride for our entire nation. This is a proud occasion for all of us, as we carry forward the legacy established by our country and draw motivation from it for future endeavors. The airport has served millions of passengers and has been a crucial entry point for Bengal and the nation during significant historical events. Our esteemed Prime Minister always emphasizes, 'Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi.'"
In conjunction with the centenary celebrations, the Minister announced a range of initiatives, including the issuance of a commemorative stamp and coin to honor the 100 years of Kolkata Airport, the publication of an art book that showcases India’s cultural heritage through modern airport architecture, and a three-month-long celebration engaging the people of Kolkata and Bengal, along with the Airport Authority of India (AAI).
A unique UDAN Yatri Cafe is also set to be introduced at Kolkata Airport, designed specifically for passengers traveling under the UDAN scheme. This café will provide a curated menu at affordable prices, ensuring that travelers enjoy quality food without overspending, thus enhancing their travel experience.
"The civil aviation sector is among the fastest-growing sectors in the country and is vital for economic growth and job creation. With the steadfast support of our Prime Minister and a committed team, we are optimistic about achieving even greater milestones in the upcoming five years. The centenary of Kolkata Airport will motivate us to reach new heights," he concluded.
