NEW DELHI: India is gearing up to expand its airport infrastructure significantly, aiming to increase its number of airports to 300 by 2047, driven by a projected eightfold increase in passenger traffic. This ambitious plan, outlined by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), seeks to transform existing airstrips and construct new airports across the country, reports read.

According to the draft plan, approximately 70 airstrips will be developed into airports capable of accommodating narrow-body aircraft like the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. An additional 40 airstrips may be upgraded to cater to smaller aircraft. In cases where airstrips cannot be developed or civilian airports are absent within a 50-kilometer radius, the construction of new greenfield airports is being considered.

Currently, India operates 138 airports, a number set to expand significantly under the new plan. An official quoted in the report stated, "This expansion will include a mix of greenfield airports and the development of existing civil enclaves into fully operational airports."

The draft National Airports Development Plan predicts a substantial rise in annual passenger numbers, expected to reach between 3 billion and 3.5 billion by 2047, up from the current 376 million. International traffic is projected to constitute around 10-12% of this total, with domestic traffic calculations accounting for both arrivals and departures.

India's ambitious airport expansion plan reflects its commitment to meet growing air travel demands, ensuring enhanced connectivity and infrastructure to support economic growth and tourism across the country.

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