Government to Develop 50 New Airports, Position Delhi as Global Aviation Hub: Ram Mohan Naidu

At the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025, Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu unveiled ambitious plans for India’s aviation sector, emphasizing the development of 50 new airports over the next five years and establishing Delhi as a major international aviation hub within two years.

Expanding Infrastructure and Global Partnerships

Speaking to ANI, Naidu said, “We are looking at international partnerships to bring new technologies and advanced passenger services into the country. Our goal is to add 50 more airports and position Delhi as a key transit hub for international flights.”

The government is engaging with airlines, airport operators, and global stakeholders to strengthen transit networks and enhance Delhi’s connectivity. "There’s significant international interest in investing in India's aviation sector, which has been growing at an annual rate of over 10%," Naidu noted.

India’s Aviation Growth Story

India has become the third-largest domestic aviation network globally, driven by a decade of rapid expansion. The Minister highlighted the focus on increasing passenger fleets, improving infrastructure, and addressing growing air travel demand.

“Our strategic location between East and West makes India a natural candidate for a global aviation hub,” Naidu added, stressing efforts to enhance the hub-and-spoke model through collaboration with domestic and international airlines.

Commitment to Sustainability

The Minister also outlined India’s roadmap for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), committing to:

• 1% SAF blending in international flights by 2027


• 5% SAF blending by 2030


• Producing 5 million tonnes of SAF by 2030

“We are building infrastructure and an ecosystem to showcase SAF’s potential to the world,” Naidu stated, adding that India aims to lead in sustainable aviation practices.

Proactive Government Efforts

The government is coordinating with key ministries, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, to streamline processes and bolster India’s aviation network. “We are taking proactive steps to ensure Delhi becomes a global aviation hub within two years,” Naidu said.

With enthusiasm from international investors and global leaders, India’s aviation sector is poised for unprecedented growth, cementing its position as a global leader in aviation innovation and sustainability.

ET