The Indian aviation sector is soaring to new heights, and Airports Authority of India (AAI) is at the forefront of this exciting journey. With ambitious plans for capital expenditure, infrastructure upgrades, and cutting-edge research, AAI is set to transform the air travel experience across the country.
Investing in Growth: ₹5,000 Crore Capex Boost
AAI is committed to driving growth through sustained investment, aiming to spend ₹5,000 crore annually on capital expenditure in the coming years. This significant increase from the current FY 2023-24 target of ₹4,000 crore reflects AAI’s dedication to modernizing and expanding airport infrastructure across India.
The capex drive is already bearing fruit. As of December 2023, AAI has achieved a capex of ₹3,416 crores, surpassing the original target and well on track to reach the revised figure of ₹5,000 crore or more. This impressive progress will pave the way for enhanced capacity and improved services at airports nationwide.
New Terminals Taking Off
The capex spree translates into concrete action on the ground, with new terminals sprouting up across the country. Patna, Leh, Vijayawada, and Tuticorin airports are already witnessing the construction of new terminals, while Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jammu, and Rajahmundry will soon follow suit.
The expansion doesn’t stop there. Hubli, Belagavi, and Kadapa airports are also slated to gain new terminal buildings, while existing terminals at Keshod, Agra, Ayodhya Phase-II, Varanasi, Bagdogra, and Darbhanga are set for expansion. This surge in terminal capacity will ensure seamless air travel for a growing number of passengers.
Agatti Airport: Expanding Reach to Pristine Lakshadweep
Not all expansion is confined to the mainland. AAI is in discussions with the Lakshadweep administration and other stakeholders to chart a roadmap for the expansion of Agatti Airport, the gateway to this breathtaking archipelago. This crucial project will bring the beauty of Lakshadweep closer to more travelers, boosting tourism and economic development in the region.
Research and Development: Fueling Innovation
AAI recognizes that innovation is key to future-proofing the aviation sector. It has established the Civil Aviation Research Organisation (CARO) in Hyderabad, a dedicated R&D center designed to foster collaboration and advancement in air navigation services.
Developed at a cost of ₹350 crore, CARO aims to become a vibrant hub for research and development. AAI is actively engaging with partners and stakeholders to identify crucial research areas, while encouraging its own employees to submit “problem statements” with suggestions for improvement and efficiency.
This collaborative approach will leverage the expertise of diverse players, including startups, to address industry challenges and develop cutting-edge solutions. CARO has the potential to transform Indian aviation, making it not just efficient but also a global leader in innovation.
Low-Visibility Operations: Ensuring Safe Landings in Any Weather
AAI also prioritizes passenger safety and operational efficiency. Five AAI-run airports – Hyderabad, Bhopal, Bhubaneshwar, Ranchi, and Raipur – are undergoing upgrades to their Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) by the end of 2024. This shift from CAT I to CAT II ILS will allow aircraft to land safely even in 350-meter visibility conditions, a significant improvement from the current 550 meters.
Hyderabad airport, one of the busiest in the country, is particularly proactive in this regard. It is upgrading one side of its main runway to CAT II by December, with plans for CAT III upgrade in the future. This commitment to enhancing low-visibility landing capabilities ensures air travel remains accessible even during challenging weather conditions.
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AAI’s Vision: Transforming Indian Aviation
AAI’s ambitious plans, from increased capex and terminal construction to innovation through CARO and improved low-visibility operations, paint a compelling picture of a transforming Indian aviation sector. With a focus on growth, safety, and efficiency, AAI is poised to take Indian aviation to new heights, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable air travel experience for millions of passengers across the country.
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