India Aims to Soar: Expanding Airport Network by 2047
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India is charting a course for growth with ambitious plans to build up to 350 airports by 2047. Minister of Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu, revealed this vision at the World Economic Forum in Davos, highlighting the country's remarkable progress in the aviation sector. Over the past decade, India has witnessed unprecedented growth, transforming into the world's third-largest domestic aviation market. This achievement is attributed to strategic policy-making, significant investments in the civil aviation sector, and a concerted effort to democratize air travel and enhance regional connectivity. From just 74 airports in 2014, India has expanded its airport network to 164 today. The government plans to add 50 more airports in the next five years, with a long-term goal of reaching 350 airports by 2047. This expansion is accompanied by a substantial order for 1,700 aircraft, a feat unmatched by any other country. India's civil aviation sector is projected to continue growing at a rate of over 10-12% annually. Speaking on the sidelines of the WEF, Minister Naidu emphasized the importance of collaboration, not just for economic gain but to foster meaningful discussions, debates, and a sustainable future for all. At the WEF, several state governments, including Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam, are engaging with global leaders to explore opportunities for collaboration and growth. These discussions aim to drive innovation, safety, security, and technological advancements in the sector. The 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum, held from January 19 to 23, 2026, in Davos-Klosters, brings together nearly 3,000 participants from over 130 countries, including world leaders, CEOs, innovators, and policymakers, under the theme 'A Spirit of Dialogue.'
