PM Modi Unveils India's Aviation Revolution: Sector Soars to Global Prominence
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a significant address delivered via video conferencing to the Wings India 2026 programme in Hyderabad on Wednesday, declared that India's aviation landscape has experienced a monumental transformation over the past decade. He emphasized that what was once an exclusive mode of transport reserved for a privileged few has now blossomed into the world's third-largest domestic aviation market, marking a historic shift in accessibility and scale.
Infrastructure Expansion and Regional Connectivity
The Prime Minister detailed the remarkable infrastructure growth that has fueled this aviation boom. He revealed that the number of operational airports across the country has surged from a mere 70 in 2014 to more than 160 at present, with over 100 aerodromes being activated to enhance network coverage. This strategic expansion has been instrumental in bridging the connectivity gap, effectively linking Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities and significantly strengthening regional air links.
Highlighting the pivotal role of the UDAN scheme, Modi noted that this initiative has been crucial in democratizing air travel, making it affordable and accessible to a broader segment of the population. Under UDAN, approximately 1.5 crore passengers have utilized air routes that were previously non-existent, showcasing the scheme's success in unlocking new travel corridors.
Future Vision and Sustainable Growth
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister outlined an ambitious roadmap for the sector's continued evolution. He announced that the government is actively working on the next phase of the UDAN scheme to further amplify regional and affordable air connectivity. Additionally, plans are underway to develop sea-plane operations nationwide, aimed at improving access to remote and coastal areas, thereby enhancing logistical efficiency.
By 2047, Modi projected that India is expected to boast more than 400 airports, creating an extensive and robust air connectivity network. He stressed that as India progresses towards becoming a developed nation, this expansion will multiply, generating unprecedented growth and opening new avenues for investment in the aviation industry.
Self-Reliance and Global Hub Aspirations
On the front of self-reliance, the Prime Minister underscored India's strong emphasis on aircraft design, manufacturing, and the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) sector. He pointed out that India is already a significant supplier of aircraft components and has initiated domestic production of military and transport aircraft, with steady advancements in civilian aircraft manufacturing.
Modi highlighted that India's strategic geographic location within global air corridors, coupled with a robust domestic feeder network and the expansion of long-haul aircraft fleets, positions the country to emerge as a major global aviation hub. This presents a substantial opportunity for international investors and manufacturers to engage with India's burgeoning market.
Technological Innovations and Cargo Development
Discussing future-oriented technologies, the Prime Minister mentioned that electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, designed and developed indigenously, could soon revolutionize the aviation industry by significantly reducing travel times. Furthermore, India is making extensive strides in sustainable aviation fuel and has the potential to become a major producer and exporter of green aviation fuel, aligning with global environmental goals.
In terms of cargo logistics, Modi emphasized the importance of developing air cargo capabilities, including digital cargo platforms, warehousing, and logistics reforms. These measures aim to make cargo transportation faster and more efficient, helping India establish itself as a competitive transshipment hub on the global stage.
The Prime Minister concluded by reiterating that the aviation sector's growth is intrinsically linked to India's broader economic and tourism development. With a focused approach on infrastructure and innovation, India is poised to connect the Global South and the international community, solidifying its role as a key player in the global aviation ecosystem.
