The Central government is set to undertake 50 airport development projects over the next five years, aiming to significantly enhance India’s aviation infrastructure and ecosystem. These projects, which include both new greenfield airports and upgrades to existing ones, form part of a broader strategy to strengthen connectivity, support airlines, and improve training capacities across the sector.

Speaking at the Airports Council International (ACI) Asia Pacific & Middle East Regional Assembly held in New Delhi, Civil Aviation Secretary Vumlunmang Vualnam highlighted the government’s comprehensive approach toward aviation development. “Efforts are being made in a holistic manner to develop the aviation ecosystem, including supporting airlines, and scaling up flying training organisations,” he said. Public Private Partnership (PPP) would remain central to this initiative, citing the government's focus on collaborative models for infrastructure development.

As of now, India has 159 operational airports - a notable rise from 74 in 2014. The planned projects are expected to further accelerate this growth, aligning with India's goal of becoming a major aviation hub. Land for these developments is typically provided by respective state governments, facilitating quicker project execution.