Adani Group Announces Massive Airport Investment Plan
The Adani Group is set to invest between Rs 90,000 crore and Rs 1 lakh crore across its airport portfolio over the next five years, according to Jeet Adani, Director at Adani Airport Holdings. The announcement came after the inauguration of commercial flight operations from Mundra airport in Gujarat, in partnership with Star Air, connecting key domestic destinations.
Mundra Airport Launches Commercial Flights
On Tuesday, Adani Mundra Airport launched its inaugural scheduled flight service connecting Mumbai and Goa. This air link, established with Star Air, aims to unlock economic potential for the Kutch region, transforming it into a multi-modal logistics and business hub. Jeet Adani noted that the new terminal, completed in record time, will initially operate regional flights to Mumbai, Goa, Surat, Hindon, and soon Ahmedabad.
Five-Year Investment Plan Remains on Track
Speaking to the media after the inauguration, Jeet Adani confirmed that the five-year investment plan across all airports continues as previously stated. "Investment, our five-year investment plan across all airports is about 90,000, 1 lakh crore investment plan and that continues to be the case," he said. The group will bid aggressively when the government opens private bidding for 11 new airports. "We will be seriously participating and there is no target of how many out of 11 we will take, but we significantly want to be an increasing part of the economy, of the aviation economy," he added.
Key Drivers for Mundra Airport Growth
Jeet Adani highlighted three key drivers for Mundra airport's growth: internal connectivity for Adani stakeholders and employees, business travel as Mundra has generated significant local wealth, and tourism linked to cultural sites and Manvi beach. He noted that previously, a trip from Mundra to Mumbai required two stops, making the direct flight a major convenience. Direct metro connectivity from Mundra is expected to boost tourism, especially since nearby airstrips like Bhuj currently have limited flights.
Aircraft Types and Future Expansion
Operations will begin with regional transport flights, with narrow-body A320/737 operations possible later as demand grows and supply constraints ease. "Right now to start with will only be regional flights or regional transport flights and as the demand grows then narrowbodies will come in," Jeet Adani said. The runway can already handle A320/737 aircraft, with extension land available for larger planes.
Government Support and UDAAN Scheme
Jeet Adani thanked the teams for fast-tracking the terminal and the Government of India for the UDAAN scheme, which enabled approvals and connectivity. "We see that this will open up a significant amount of connectivity and interface from Mundra, our Karmabhoomi to the rest of India," he stated.
