The Indian aviation industry has experienced remarkable growth over the past decade, emerging as one of the fastest-expanding markets globally. This surge is driven by a rising middle class, higher disposable incomes, and a booming tourism sector, all contributing to the rising demand for air travel. India has the third-largest domestic aviation market in the world after the United States and China. In 2019, Indian airlines carried over 140 million domestic passengers. The busiest airport in India is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which handled over 69 million passengers in 2019. The Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is the second busiest, with over 48 million passengers in 2019.

According to TechSci Research report “India Airport Infrastructure Market Segmented By Airport Type (Brownfield Airports, Greenfield Airports), By Ownership (Government, Private, Public-Private Partnership), By Component (Ground Support Equipment, Fixed Equipment, Airport Services), By Application (Hangers, Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul Facilities, Terminal, Warehousing, Runways, Others), By Region, Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F” India Airport Infrastructure Market was valued at USD 1.07 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1.52 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.92% during the forecast period.

Airport infrastructure refers to the essential physical components of an airport, such as runways, terminals, hangars, control towers, and access roads, which are exposed to various hazards and climate change impacts. Such infrastructure is increasingly vulnerable to a wide range of natural and human-induced hazards, including extreme weather events, sea-level rise, flooding, heatwaves, and other adverse effects associated with climate change, which can significantly disrupt airport operations and compromise safety and resilience.

The UDAN scheme, launched under the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) 2016, has greatly accelerated airport infrastructure development in India by focusing on connectivity to tier-2 and tier-3 cities. By incentivizing airlines through concessions and Viability Gap Funding (VGF), UDAN increased regional air traffic demand, prompting the modernization and expansion of many regional airports. This led to the construction of new terminals, runway upgrades, and improved navigational aids, while also accelerating the development of greenfield airports in smaller cities. The scheme encouraged greater private sector participation, resulting in public-private partnerships that enhanced the quality and efficiency of airport infrastructure projects across the country.

As a result, improved airport infrastructure under UDAN has not only made air travel affordable and accessible in previously underserved regions but also stimulated economic growth by fostering tourism, business opportunities, and regional trade. Additionally, the focus on sustainable and scalable infrastructure during airport upgrades reflects a modern approach to development, integrating renewable energy and eco-friendly construction practices. Overall, UDAN has acted as a catalyst, transforming India’s aviation landscape and strengthening connectivity between urban centers and emerging regional hubs.

1. GMR Group

GMR Airports Limited (formerly known as GMR Airports Infrastructure Limited) is engaged in development, operation and maintenance of airports along with offering integrated security solutions. GAL is the largest private airport operator in Asia and amongst the largest globally, current operational passenger handling capacity of around 150 million annually. The company’s strength lies in bidding, financing, project & operations management and partnership development. This has helped the company in bidding for large airports and enabling it to extend its presence in international markets. GAL is also the only Indian airport developer to have developed and operated airports outside India, providing technical services to Mactan Cebu International Airport in the Philippines and operating Kualanamu International Airport in Indonesia. The Group has also been selected to develop, operate and manage Crete's new Kastelli Airport in Greece.

2. GVK Group

GVK is a leading Indian conglomerate with diversified interests across various sectors including energy, airports, transportation, hospitality and life sciences. GVK first made its foray in the Indian aviation sector in 2006, when it bagged the mandate to operate, manage and develop the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Mumbai. Over the next 15 years, GVK blazed new trails in the field of India’s airport development by creating iconic design landmarks in Mumbai and Bangalore, as also the proposed Greenfield airport at Navi Mumbai.

In 2010, GVK acquired a significant stake in Bangalore International Airport Ltd., and developed a new Master Plan, which envisaged construction of a new Terminal 2, a new second runway and ancillary facilities to cater for traffic of 55 mppa by the year 2029-30.

3. Adani Airports Holdings Ltd (AAHL)

Adani Airports Holdings Ltd (AAHL) is the airport infrastructure and management arm of the Adani Group, one of India’s largest and most diversified conglomerates. Established in 2019 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Ltd, AAHL has quickly emerged as the country’s largest private airport operator. The company aims to redefine the airport experience by integrating modern infrastructure, digital innovation, and world-class services across its network.

AAHL currently operates seven major airports across India: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow, Mangaluru International Airport, Jaipur International Airport, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, and Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. Additionally, it is developing the Navi Mumbai International Airport, a major greenfield project slated to begin operations in May 2025. These assets are managed under long-term concession agreements with the Airports Authority of India, positioning AAHL at the forefront of India's aviation infrastructure landscape.

4. Airports Authority of India (AAI)

Airports Authority of India (AAI) was constituted by an Act of Parliament and came into being on April 1, 1995, by merging erstwhile National Airports Authority and International Airports Authority of India. The merger brought into existence a single organization entrusted with the responsibility of creating, upgrading, maintaining and managing civil aviation infrastructure both on the ground and air space in the country.

AAI manages a total of 133 airports out of which 110 airports are operational while other 23 airports are non-operational. These operational airports include 28 civil enclaves and 8 airports under private control [2 JV Airports + 6 PPP Airports under long term lease]. 35 out of total 110 AAI operational airports have international operations.

5. Larsen & Toubro (L&T)

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is one of India’s largest and most respected engineering, construction, manufacturing, and technology conglomerates. Established in 1938 and headquartered in Mumbai, L&T operates across a wide range of sectors including infrastructure, power, defense, heavy engineering, and more. L&T has been a major player in the development of airport infrastructure in India and internationally. Its expertise spans the entire lifecycle of airport projects, from engineering design and procurement to construction and commissioning.

6. Tata Projects

​Tata Projects is one of the most admired Technology led Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) companies in India. Airport construction is a key focus area for Tata Projects, and its consistent and on-time project delivery supports its reputation as a leader in this field.

Tata Projects has played a significant role in the development of airport infrastructure across India, notably executing major EPC projects. It was awarded the EPC contract for the greenfield Noida International Airport (Jewar) in Uttar Pradesh, handling the construction of the terminal, runway, airside infrastructure, roads, and utilities, with the first phase designed for 12 million passengers annually and planned expansion up to 70 million. Tata Projects also completed the new terminal at Prayagraj Airport in just 11 months, showcasing its ability to deliver high-quality infrastructure rapidly. Additionally, it contributed to the expansion of Tiruchirappalli International Airport in Tamil Nadu, which included a new integrated terminal and runway extension to increase capacity and reduce congestion.

7. Shapoorji Pallonji Group

Shapoorji Pallonji and Company Pvt. Ltd. is a global, diversified organisation of 15 major companies. It delivers end-to-end solutions in six business segments, including engineering & construction, infrastructure, real estate, water, energy and financial services.

The group is actively engaged in India’s airport infrastructure sector through key construction projects and strategic development initiatives. The company constructed the new integrated terminal at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair, featuring a distinctive shell-shaped design and the capacity to handle five million passengers annually. It is also building the upcoming Leh Airport terminal, set to become India’s first geothermal and solar-powered airport, with full operations expected by 2027.

8. Simplex Infrastructures Ltd

Simplex Infrastructures Ltd. is a diversified company established in 1924. It is engaged in executing projects in several sectors like transport, energy & power, mining, buildings, marine, real estate, etc. Simplex is one of the construction leaders in India for nearly 90 years executing projects with consistent quality assurance, cost control and adherence to milestones in a safe environment as per the customer requirements. It promotes the culture of sharing rich and varied experience with staff members, as also with clients and thereby benefits and helps the growth of the construction fraternity and society at large. 

Simplex Infrastructures Ltd. has played a significant role in India’s airport infrastructure development through multiple key projects across the country. It constructed terminal buildings at Jaipur International Airport and Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, with comprehensive works including civil, MEP, HVAC, and fire safety systems. The company also built the new passenger terminal at Vijayawada Airport, designed to handle 750,000 passengers annually and featuring sustainable elements targeting a GRIHA Three-Star rating.

Major Upcoming Airport Projects and Expansions in India:

Noida International Airport (Jewar, Uttar Pradesh): Jewar International Airport is scheduled to commence operations in 2025, this greenfield airport is set to become Asia's largest, spanning over 1,300 hectares. The first phase includes a terminal capable of handling 12 million passengers annually and a 3.9 km runway. Future expansions aim to accommodate up to 12 million passengers annually.

Navi Mumbai International Airport (Maharashtra): IndiGo is set to launch commercial flights from this newly constructed airport, with plans to operate 18 daily flights initially, expanding to 79 by November 2025. The airport aims to handle 20 million passengers annually in its first phase, with further expansion planned.

Dholera International Airport (Gujarat): Located approximately 100 km from Ahmedabad, this greenfield airport is being developed as part of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor. The first phase, expected to be completed by December 2025, will have a capacity of handling about 300,000 passengers per year, with plans to increase this to 5 million annually.

Pune Airport Expansion (Maharashtra): The redevelopment of Pune Airport's old terminal aims to enhance capacity and streamline services. Post-redevelopment, the airport will house 48 check-in counters, two automated boarding gates, and expanded ticket counters, enabling it to handle up to 10.5 million passengers annually.

Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati, Assam): A new terminal building is under construction to accommodate 4,300 domestic and 200 international passengers during peak hours, with an annual capacity of about 10 million passengers. The terminal will feature modern amenities, including 64 check-in counters and 10 aerobridges.

Satna Airport (Madhya Pradesh): Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate this new airport on May 31, 2025. The airport will feature a 1,200-meter runway and a terminal building capable of accommodating 100 passengers at a time, enhancing connectivity in the region.

Bihta Airport (Bihar): A new terminal at Bihta Airport, with an area of 68,000 square meters, is under construction to handle up to 5 million passengers annually. The project aims to improve connectivity and support regional development.

Darbhanga Airport (Bihar): The expansion includes a new passenger terminal, a new Air Traffic Control tower, and cargo facilities. The project, estimated at INR 912 crore, is expected to be completed by September 2026, enhancing air connectivity in the region.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, India’s airport infrastructure landscape is rapidly evolving, propelled by ambitious projects and visionary policies like UDAN and NCAP 2016. With major greenfield airports coming up and existing ones undergoing extensive expansions, the country is set to significantly enhance its air connectivity, especially in underserved regions. This expansion promotes economic growth, tourism, and regional integration in addition to the thriving aviation industry. As top infrastructure companies continue to innovate and execute these projects with a focus on sustainability and technology, India is well on its way to becoming a leading global aviation hub in the coming decade.