Changing Landscape of Airport Construction in India: Trends, Tech & Challenges
India’s airport sector is experiencing rapid expansion, driven by rising air travel demand and the push for modern infrastructure. Higher disposable incomes, urbanization, and improved connectivity are fueling this demand, necessitating continuous expansion and modernization of airports across the country.
This year’s Union Budget has allocated Rs 2,400 crore to civil aviation, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening the sector. Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu highlighted India’s aviation progress, noting that the number of operational airports has more than doubled from 74 in 2014 to 157 in 2024. The government aims to increase this number to 350-400 by 2047. Major airport expansion projects are underway in Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai, while new international airports like Navi Mumbai, Noida International Airport and Dholera are nearing completion. Airports in Ahmedabad and Jodhpur are also undergoing significant upgrades.
Private airport operators are set to invest over Rs 60,000 crore in infrastructure development through fiscal 2027, marking a 12% increase from the Rs 53,000 crore spent between fiscals 2022 and 2024, according to a CRISIL Ratings report. The Indian government plans to invest Rs 92,000 crore in new airport construction and the expansion of existing facilities. These efforts align with projections from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which estimates that India will become the world’s third-largest air passenger market by 2030.
Regional connectivity remains a key focus. The government’s UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme has significantly expanded airport infrastructure in Tier I and II cities, making over 550 routes and 85 airports operational. Meanwhile, the industry is witnessing a shift toward sustainable airport design, with an emphasis on eco-friendly construction and energy-efficient operations.
Despite this progress, challenges persist. Recent infrastructure failures, including the collapse of a section of Delhi Airport’s roof, have raised concerns about construction quality and maintenance standards. Rapid airport expansion also faces hurdles such as limited skilled labor, complex land acquisition processes, and aggressive project timelines. The availability of experienced EPC contractors remains a bottleneck, while regulatory approvals and permits continue to slow down execution.
This report by Zainab Faridi, explores the latest trends, technologies, and challenges shaping India’s airport construction landscape. Insights from industry stakeholders, including Balajee Infratech & Const, Dorsch Consult, Tata Projects, Turner Project Management, and Bentley Systems, provide a comprehensive outlook on the sector’s future.
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