The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has lauded India’s substantial investments in expanding airport infrastructure, recognising the nation’s commitment to enhancing air travel capacity in line with growing demand.
Amitabh Khosla, IATA’s Country Director for India, Nepal, and Bhutan, highlighted the transformative developments in India’s aviation sector during a media briefing at the association’s Annual General Meeting in New Delhi on June 1. He noted, “There is a total transformation and a major ramp-up of airport capacity in India, which is positive.” Khosla pointed to significant investments in major gateway airports, including Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru, as well as the development of second-city airports such as Navi Mumbai International and Noida International, both set to commence operations this year. These initiatives are expected to alleviate congestion at existing terminals and improve connectivity across the country.
The expansion efforts extend beyond metropolitan hubs, with substantial developments in tier-two and tier-three cities. This inclusive approach aims to enhance regional connectivity, supporting economic growth and equitable access to air travel. Khosla also commended the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA) for its proactive role in regulating airport charges. He stated, “We are fortunate to have an economic regulator which has been proactive with regards to regulating major airports.” This regulatory oversight ensures that tariff determinations align with the capital expenditures undertaken by airports, fostering a balanced approach to infrastructure development and cost management.
Beyond passenger services, Khosla observed the emergence of a more robust aviation ecosystem in India, encompassing sectors such as air cargo, aircraft leasing, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. He noted, “We are seeing a focus on air cargo, leasing, and many other areas like MRO.” This diversification reflects the industry’s adaptability and potential for sustainable growth.
The development of Noida International Airport exemplifies these advancements. Scheduled to commence operations in 2025, the airport is set to feature a multimodal cargo hub with a capacity exceeding 100,000 tonnes, designed to scale with demand. The facility’s modular design, in partnership with Air India SATS, aims to enhance cargo handling efficiency and support the country’s growing trade requirements.
Similarly, Navi Mumbai International Airport is poised to alleviate congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, facilitating improved domestic and international connectivity. These developments are part of a broader strategy to modernise India’s aviation infrastructure, ensuring it meets the demands of an expanding economy and population.
In conclusion, IATA’s endorsement underscores the positive trajectory of India’s aviation sector. The concerted efforts to expand and modernise airport infrastructure, coupled with regulatory oversight and ecosystem diversification, position India to meet the evolving needs of air travel, fostering sustainable and inclusive growth in the industry.
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