India’s aviation sector is gearing up for a major infrastructure and structural overhaul, with the commercial rollout of the country’s first seaplane service in Lakshadweep imminent and the Bhogapuram International Airport positioned as a massive economic aerotropolis for the eastern coast.In a wide-ranging interview with businessline, Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu disclosed that the government is targeting at least five major domestic carriers with fleets exceeding 100 aircraft each to match soaring demand. Unveiling a comprehensive roadmap spanning regional connectivity, aggressive fleet expansion, and indigenous manufacturing, bolstered by the recent design completion of the 19-seater SARAS aircraft, the Minister outlined how policy interventions and a projected ₹20,000–30,000 crore government investment over the next decade will transform India from an aviation market into a global manufacturing and design hub.
Apart from the roll-out of the modified UDAN scheme, another much-awaited launch—the Bhogapuram International Airport—is also on the anvil. Do you see the airport becoming an economic growth engine for the region? And does it have the potential to emerge as a gateway to India’s eastern corridor?
