Soaring Skies, Thriving Economy: India’s Aviation Vision 2047
India’s airport network has grown from 74 in 2014 to 163 in 2025, and the government aims to more than double that by 2047.
New Delhi, October 23: India’s civil aviation sector has emerged as a pillar of national growth, driving connectivity, employment, and innovation. As the country marks nine years of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has outlined an ambitious Aviation Vision 2047, envisioning 350–400 airports by the centenary of independence and over 25 million jobs supported by the sector.
From Regional Connectivity to Global Competitiveness
UDAN has revolutionised India’s regional air network, operationalising 649 routes and connecting 93 airports, heliports, and waterdromes, including remote regions in the Northeast and the islands. The scheme has enabled 1.56 crore passengers across 3.23 lakh flights, transforming regional economies. With an expansion target of 120 new destinations and 4 crore passengers in the next decade, UDAN continues to democratise air travel.
A Decade of Transformation
India’s airport network has grown from 74 in 2014 to 163 in 2025, and the government aims to more than double that by 2047. Aviation supports 7.7 million jobs, directly employing over 3.6 lakh professionals, and fuels allied industries such as tourism, logistics, and manufacturing. Each rupee invested in aviation generates more than three times its value in economic activity.
Innovation, Inclusion, and Sustainability
Initiatives like Digi Yatra, Krishi UDAN, Greenfield Airports Policy, and the Drone PLI Scheme are transforming the aviation landscape. Digi Yatra has already processed 52 million passengers, enabling seamless, contactless travel. The Drone Rules 2021 and PLI incentives worth ₹34.79 crore have boosted domestic manufacturing and reduced import dependence.
Building for the Future
Under the India Semiconductor Mission, new airports, MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) facilities, and Flight Training Organisations (FTOs) are being established to meet rising demand. India is projected to need 30,000–34,000 pilots over the next 15 years, with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) targeting 25% female representation in aviation roles by 2025.
Toward a $10 Trillion Economy
By 2040, India’s air passenger traffic is expected to reach 1.1 billion, supported by an airline fleet of over 2,300 aircraft. With 25 million aviation-related jobs projected by 2047, the sector will serve as a core engine of Viksit Bharat, advancing sustainability, inclusivity, and economic resilience.
India’s aviation story—rooted in Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat @2047—symbolises the nation’s determination to connect every citizen, power every region, and take flight as a global leader in the skies.
