India’s Air Passenger Traffic Set to Reach 42 Crore by 2030
In a significant projection, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia has forecasted that India’s air passenger traffic, presently at 14.5 crore, will soar to 42 crores by the year 2030. Speaking at the inauguration of a new terminal at Rajahmundry Airport, Scindia emphasized that civil aviation is poised to become a pivotal component of the country’s transportation network.
Scindia highlighted the ambitious growth plans, disclosing that the combined capacity of six major metro airports, currently at 22 crore, is slated to reach 42 crore within the next five years. The minister lauded the development strides in aviation infrastructure, noting the addition of 12 new greenfield airports in the past nine years, bringing the total count to 15. Furthermore, he announced the imminent completion of two new greenfield airports next year, one near Delhi in Jewar and another in Navi Mumbai.
Underscoring the expansion of aviation facilities, Scindia projected an increase in the total number of airports, waterdromes, and heliports from 149 to 220 by 2030. He highlighted the transformative growth in the past nine years, where 75 new airports, waterdromes, and heliports were added, surpassing the 74 developed since Independence.
The minister provided updates on specific projects, revealing that the first phase of construction for the Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport in Ayodhya would conclude by the end of this month. Additionally, Scindia announced the expected commencement of the first section of the bullet train project in three years.
Turning attention to Andhra Pradesh, the minister shared insights into ongoing projects, including two new greenfield initiatives in Bhogapuram and Nellore, along with a waterdrome at Prakasam Barrage. He highlighted the significant growth in the state’s aviation landscape, noting the addition of two airports, Kurnool and Kadapa, since 2014.
Indian Air Passenger Traffic has seen Huge Surge, Announces Minister Scindia
Scindia celebrated improved connectivity across all airports in Andhra Pradesh, citing a 200 percent increase in air traffic movements from 388 in 2014 to 1,164. He detailed the success of the UDAN scheme, operationalizing 32 routes in the state and enhancing connectivity for cities like Rajahmundry, Tirupati, and Vijayawada.
Providing insights into the Rajahmundry Airport, Scindia revealed that a new terminal, costing INR 350 crore, is under construction. The facility, four times the size of the existing terminal, is expected to accommodate over 2,100 passengers during peak hours and 30 lakh passengers annually, marking a significant capacity expansion.
Expressing confidence in the transformative impact of enhanced connectivity, Scindia envisioned opportunities in local tourism, investment, and agricultural trade. He emphasized Rajahmundry’s cultural significance as the center of heritage and the birthplace of the Telugu language.
However, the financial challenges facing Andhra Pradesh airports were acknowledged, with cumulative losses exceeding INR 520 crore between 2020-21 and 2022-23. Notably, Vizag airport managed to turn a profit in 2022-23 after previous losses.
Providing specifics about Vizag airport, Scindia detailed its impressive infrastructure, including a 1,200-acre spread, a 3,165-meter runway capable of landing Boeing 377 and Airbus 321 planes, and connectivity to Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad with 126 flight movements weekly.
With the imminent completion of the new terminal at Rajahmundry Airport, Scindia anticipates a substantial increase in peak passenger load and outlined features such as three aero bridges, modern connectivity, 28 check-in counters, and sustainable elements.
Addressing the demand for a cargo terminal, Scindia affirmed consideration once the new passenger terminal is completed, especially if there is a demand for seafood and plantations in domestic trade.
