India Set to Double Air Passenger Traffic by 2030 Amid Major Aviation Expansion

India’s aviation sector is poised for significant growth, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi announcing that the annual number of air travelers is expected to more than double—from 24 crore (240 million) to nearly 50 crore (500 million) by 2030. This projection was shared during the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) 81st Annual General Meeting held in New Delhi. 

Key highlights from PM Modi’s address include:

• Expansion of Airport Infrastructure: The number of operational airports in India has increased from 74 in 2014 to 162 in 2025, with plans to expand to 350 by 2047.
• Growth in Cargo Handling: India aims to triple its cargo handling capacity from 3.5 million metric tonnes to 10 million metric tonnes by the end of this decade.
• Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Hub: The country is set to become a $4 billion MRO hub by 2030, enhancing its role in the global aviation supply chain.
• Commercial Space Flights: India is working towards integrating space travel into its civil aviation sector, aiming to commercialize space flights in the future.
• Inclusive Workforce: India boasts one of the most inclusive aviation workforces globally, with women comprising 15% of pilots, compared to the global average of 5%.

These initiatives underscore India’s commitment to becoming a global leader in aviation and space exploration, focusing on infrastructure development, technological advancement, and workforce inclusivity.