Did India Really Add One New Airport Every 40 Days Over the Last Decade?
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Synopsis
Discover how India has transformed its aviation landscape by adding 88 new airports in just a decade, enhancing regional connectivity and boosting socio-economic development. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu highlights the commitment to making flying more accessible and affordable for all.
Key Takeaways
- 88 new airports established in a decade.
- Average of one airport every 40 days.
- Increased accessibility and affordability of flying.
- Focus on regional development and connectivity.
- Commitment to safety in aviation operations.
New Delhi, July 5 (NationPress) Over the span of just 10 years, India has witnessed the establishment of 88 new airports — translating to nearly one new airport every 40 days — alongside the addition of 60 new flights every hour, as stated by Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu.
The Minister emphasized that flying within India has become increasingly accessible, available, and affordable.
“Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the Indian aviation sector has become more connected, competitive, and collaborative,” Naidu noted, reaffirming the ministry’s focus on state-specific strategies aimed at fostering inclusive aviation growth.
His remarks were made at the ‘Northern Region Ministers’ Conference on Civil Aviation 2025’ held in Dehradun, organized by the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
“This strategic initiative aims to uncover regional opportunities and unlock the immense potential of Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. The numbers clearly illustrate the vast opportunities that lie ahead,” Naidu explained to attendees.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted the critical role of aviation in improving regional connectivity, promoting tourism, and driving socio-economic development across the state.
He praised the remarkable advancements in the aviation industry and stressed the importance of ensuring safety in aviation operations, particularly in helicopter operations in the state's mountainous areas, to which “the state government and the Ministry are profoundly dedicated.”
The Ministry presented a range of discussions on the opportunities available in the aviation sector for the states.
The plenary session offered a comprehensive overview of the conference findings, where Naidu outlined the Ministry’s strategic priorities for the region, which include the development of heliport infrastructure, the expansion of UDAN routes, enhancements to Flying Training Organizations and MRO hubs, and fostering cooperation between the Centre, states, and industry stakeholders.
The Minister also reflected on key takeaways from the individual meetings held between the Ministry and state delegations, as well as discussions between state governments and aviation industry leaders, assuring the Central Government’s support in advancing the aviation sector.
Point of View
The commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and ensuring safety represents a significant stride towards inclusive development. The focus on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities highlights the government's dedication to unlocking potential across the nation, aligning with national interests.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many new airports has India added in the last decade?
India has added a total of 88 new airports over the past ten years.
What is the average frequency of new airports being established?
On average, India has established nearly one new airport every 40 days.
What improvements have been made in the aviation sector?
The aviation sector has added 60 new flights every hour, making flying more accessible and affordable.
What are the government's plans for regional aviation?
The government aims to identify regional opportunities and develop heliport infrastructure, UDAN routes, and training organizations.
How does aviation contribute to socio-economic development?
Aviation enhances regional connectivity, boosts tourism, and supports economic growth, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
