Delhi Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has strategically focused on establishing Delhi (DEL) as a major international aviation hub with ambitious plans to build 50 new airports within the next five years. announced.
Speaking to ANI at the World Economic Forum 2025, Naidu highlighted India’s commitment to expanding the aviation ecosystem through international partnerships and technological advancements.
India Eyes 50 new airport
The Minister highlighted the remarkable growth of India’s aviation sector. It has achieved an annual growth rate of over 10% over the past decade. India has already emerged as the third largest domestic aviation network and is attracting significant international interest from potential investors.
Naidu outlined a two-year timeline to transform Delhi into a key aviation hub, engaging with airlines and international partners to develop a comprehensive transport network and passenger services.
The government’s strategy includes increasing airport infrastructure, expanding passenger fleet capacity, and addressing the growing demand for domestic and international air travel.
According to reports, as of 2024, nearly 140 airports are operational in India.
The government aims to achieve a 1% SAF blend on international flights by 2027, with plans to escalate to 5% by 2030 and produce 5 million tonnes of sustainable aviation fuel.
Also Read: Top 15 Busiest Airports in India in 2024
India’s strategic geographical location positions it as a potential major international aviation hub capable of serving both eastern and western markets.
The Minister highlighted the Government’s proactive approach to aviation infrastructure development, including improving the hub-and-spoke model, through engagement with national and international stakeholders.
Naidu highlighted India’s commitment to creating a robust aviation ecosystem and attracted significant international interest from investors and global leaders. The Ministry works with various government departments, including the Ministry of Interior, to streamline and promote aviation development initiatives.
Must Read: India’s Civil Aviation Minister: The Story of Ram Mohan Naidu
Aviation Minister’s views on Indian aviation
Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu is the youngest cabinet minister at 37 years old and is challenging the current aviation market dominated by IndiGo and Air India. Speaking at the ET India Ascends Event, Naidu promised to break the existing two-tier and streamline entry barriers for new airlines.
Currently, Air India Group after merging Vistara owns over 28% market share, while Indigo commands 60-62% and collectively controls 90% of the market. Naidu emphasized that such market concentration puts travelers at a disadvantage.
The Minister outlined three strategic initiatives to transform India’s aviation landscape. financial support mechanisms, state-level collaboration, and price control strategies. These approaches are intended to support struggling airlines, encourage state-led airport development, and prevent excessive airfare pricing.
NAIDU’s comprehensive strategy includes active government monitoring of airlines’ financial health, implementation of the UDAN scheme to support unprofitable routes, and maintaining ongoing dialogue with carriers. The ministry calls on state governments to reduce aviation fuel taxes and track airfare patterns to ensure market accessibility.
All images by Sandeep | ATC Spotter | Instagram
According to reports, about 140 airports will be operational by the end of 2024.
The Indian government expects to double the current number of airports to 300 by 2047.
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