Aviation Demand Surges as Airlines Expand Capacity, Connectivity Becomes a Priority: Union Minister

New Delhi, September 29 (Daily Kiran) : India’s aviation sector is witnessing a remarkable surge in demand, outpacing the capacity being added by airlines. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu highlighted this trend during a recent event, emphasizing the need for enhanced aviation capacity and connectivity in the coming years.

Over the past decade, the revenue passenger kilometers (RPK) in India have grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3 percent. In comparison, the available seat kilometers (ASK) provided by airlines have seen a slightly lower growth rate of 7 percent CAGR. This indicates that the market is expanding more rapidly than the availability of seats.

Naidu pointed out that this discrepancy underscores the necessity for continuous investment in additional capacity and improved connectivity to meet the increasing demand for air travel. Today, India ranks as the third-largest domestic aviation market in the world, fueled by rising incomes, enhanced regional connectivity, and a growing appetite for air travel. The government aims to position India as the third-largest overall aviation market globally in the coming years.

To support this burgeoning demand, the government is significantly expanding the airport network. Naidu noted that in 2014, India had only 74 operational airports, but this number has now risen to over 166. The government has set an ambitious target of developing 400 airports by 2047. Currently, 66 airports are under development, with plans to establish 100 new airports in the next decade to strengthen air connectivity across the country.

Additionally, Naidu announced that India will host one of the leading global networking and route development programs, “Routes Asia 2027,” from March 16 to 18, 2027. He stated that this event would enhance India’s regional and international connectivity, showcasing the country’s growing aviation capacity and global significance.

In the last two years, India has successfully hosted several key international aviation events, including the ICAO Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference, the BRICS Summit, and the 81st Annual General Meeting of IATA. The upcoming “Routes Asia 2027” will further solidify India’s expanding role in the global aviation sector.

Looking ahead, Naidu mentioned that after expanding the airport network, the government’s next major goal is to improve connectivity, ensuring that more cities and regions connect to national and international air networks.