Centre Unveils Plan For Three International Aviation Hubs: Here’s How They Will Boost India’s Connectivity And Commerce

India is planning to establish at least three international aviation hubs in the next decade.

The initiative is aimed at reinforcing India’s global standing in aviation, reflecting its advancements across various sectors.

International aviation hubs are the major airports that serve as central connecting points for global air travel. They facilitate smooth transit for passengers and cargo between different continents. These hubs typically have extensive flight networks, modern infrastructure, and efficient operations.

India’s Rapidly Expanding Aviation Infrastructure

Union Minister for Communications and Development, Jyotiraditya Scindia, who previously served as the aviation minister, recently underscored the country’s progress in airport infrastructure.

He said that India has expanded its number of operational airports from 74 in 2014 to 159 by 2024. He also highlighted Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), which has become the second-largest airport in the world in terms of passenger capacity, handling over 109 million passengers annually.

“With the country set to become the third-largest aviation market by 2030, we aim to build at least three international hubs over the next decade,” Scindia said, signaling the government's strong commitment to enhancing the nation’s air connectivity, reports Financial Express.

The Role Of International Aviation Hubs

They are critical for global connectivity, facilitating smooth transit for passengers and cargo across continents. Scindia pointed out that countries like the UAE and Singapore have capitalised on their strategic locations to establish themselves as global transit hubs.

Dubai International Airport, for instance, handled over 87 million passengers in 2023, showcasing its importance as a gateway between Europe, Asia, and the Americas. It is currently connected to 262 destinations across 104 countries through 102 international carriers, according to data for 2023.

India’s unique geographical position between Europe, Africa, and East Asia provides a similar opportunity. Transforming its key airports, such as Delhi’s IGI, into global aviation hubs will reduce layover times, enhance connectivity for international travellers, and position India as a central transit point on major flight routes.

The creation of international aviation hubs has far-reaching economic implications. Airports act as economic catalysts, generating employment in aviation services and supporting industries like tourism, hospitality, and retail.

Scindia emphasised that, globally, aviation contributes over 4 per cent to GDP (gross domestic product). For instance, Singapore's Changi Airport, one of the world’s most connected hubs, contributes nearly 6 per cent to the national GDP.

India, which is rapidly expanding its aviation market, stands to benefit significantly from such hubs. The increase in both passenger and cargo traffic will create jobs not only in aviation but in sectors such as logistics, tourism, and commerce.

Boosting Cargo, Trade Through Airports

Global aviation hubs play a pivotal role in facilitating cargo movement, which is essential for international trade.

Airports like Hong Kong International and Memphis International Airport, home to FedEx’s global operations, are leading centres for cargo handling. In 2022, Hong Kong handled over 4.5 million metric tonnes of cargo, making it a vital player in global commerce.

India’s booming e-commerce and manufacturing sectors can leverage these hubs to boost exports, particularly in perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. Improved cargo facilities will support initiatives like "Make in India" by enabling faster and more efficient movement of goods.

Tourism Push: Connecting India With The World

Aviation hubs are equally important for driving tourism, a major revenue generator. Airports like Istanbul’s have played a key role in Turkey’s emergence as a major tourist destination. A total of 51 million people visited Turkey in 2022, according to the World Tourism Organization data.

With its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, India stands to benefit greatly from enhanced connectivity. International hubs will make travel to India more convenient, helping to draw millions of tourists each year, further boosting sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and local crafts.

For India, building at least three international hubs in the next decade, as announced by minister Scindia, presents a transformative opportunity. Leveraging India’s strategic location, expanding aviation infrastructure, and fostering better connectivity can help the country emerge as a global leader in aviation, contributing to its long-term economic and social development.