The Union Cabinet on 19 August, 2025 approved the development of a greenfield airport at Kota–Bundi, Rajasthan, with an investment of Rs. 1,507 crore, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced.

Designed to replace the existing small-aircraft facility, the new airport is slated for completion within 24 months. The Rajasthan government will provide 1,089 acres of land free of cost, while the Airports Authority of India (AAI) will fund construction through internal accruals. The project includes a 20,000 sq. mtrs. terminal building and a 3,200 mtrs. x 45 mtrs. runway, capable of handling two million passengers annually.

Highlighting the importance of the project, Minister Vaishnaw said, “Kota, a significant industrial and educational hub, will benefit from improved regional connectivity and a boost to the local economy.” Over the last 11 years, India’s operational airports have increased from 74 in 2014 to 162 in 2025. Passenger traffic also surged from 16.8 crore in 2014 to 41.2 crore this year, underscoring the government’s aviation push.