Connecting India, Empowering Growth
Introduction:
As UDAN completes nine years, India’s skies have grown busier than ever, marking the nation’s rise as the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market. The Aviation Vision 2047 charts a transformative roadmap to expand connectivity, generate employment, and strengthen India’s position as a global aviation hub.
Key Takeaways
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- UDAN revolutionised regional connectivity: 1.56 crore passengers, 3.23 lakh flights operated.
- Airport expansion: From 74 in 2014 → 163 in 2025 → target of 350–400 airports by 2047.
- Employment impact: Aviation supports 7.7 million jobs (direct + indirect).
- Digital and green innovations: Digi Yatra, Greenfield Airports Policy, and Drone PLI Scheme enhancing sustainability and ease of travel.
India’s Aviation Growth
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- India’s aviation sector has become a key driver of economic growth, contributing through transport, tourism, logistics, and manufacturing.
- The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) estimates that every ₹1 invested in aviation generates ₹3 in economic activity and supports 6x employment in related industries.
- Passenger traffic grew 10–12% annually in the past decade and is projected to reach 1.1 billion by 2040.
- The commercial airline fleet is expected to expand from 400 (2014) → 2,359 (2040).
- By 2040, total employment in the aviation ecosystem could reach 25 million, making it a cornerstone of Viksit Bharat @2047.
UDAN Achievements: The Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme has transformed India’s regional connectivity by making air travel affordable and inclusive.
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- Operational Achievements:
- 649 routes operationalised; 93 aerodromes connected (including 2 water aerodromes & 15 heliports).
- Over 1.56 crore passengers travelled and 3.23 lakh flights operated.
- ₹4,300 crore disbursed as Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to sustain regional routes.
- Regional Expansion:
- Integration of Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep, and Northeastern states into the aviation grid.
- Target: 120 new destinations and 4 crore passengers in the next decade.
- Inclusivity Initiative – UDAN Yatri Café:
- Offers affordable meals (₹10 tea, ₹20 samosa) at select airports to enhance accessibility and comfort for all travellers.
- Operational Achievements:
Aviation Vision 2047: With 25 million jobs projected by 2047 and expanding opportunities in MRO, drone manufacturing, and pilot training, aviation will become a vital pillar of India’s $10 trillion economy.
The following initiatives in the aviation sector are pivotal in achieving India’s 2047 vision-
1. Krishi UDAN
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- Launched in 2020 to transport perishables efficiently, with 50% freight subsidy and Operation Greens convergence.
- Benefits farmers in tribal, hilly, and northeastern regions.
2. Lifeline UDAN
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- Launched during COVID-19 lockdown (2020) to transport 1,000 tons of medical cargo via 588 flights across 5.45 lakh km.
3. Greenfield Airports Policy
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- Framework for PPP-based airport development on new sites, reducing congestion in metro hubs.
4. Digi Yatra
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- Launched in 2022; enables paperless, contactless passenger processing through facial recognition.
- Used by 52.2 million passengers (March 2025); over 12.1 million app downloads.
5. Flight Training & Pilot Development
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- Expanding Flight Training Organisations (FTOs) to meet projected 30,000–34,000 pilot demand.
- Gender inclusion push: 13–18% women pilots currently; 25% target by 2025 across aviation roles.
6. Drone Rules 2021 & PLI Scheme
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- Liberalised regulatory framework to boost domestic drone manufacturing.
- ₹34.79 crore PLI disbursed (FY 2024–25), enhancing Atmanirbhar Bharat in drone technology.
7. Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024
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- Modernises the Aircraft Act (1934) for global compliance and indigenous manufacturing.
- Streamlines licensing, fosters Make in India, and aligns with ICAO and Chicago Convention standards.
Conclusion:
Aviation Vision 2047 charts the skies for a $10 trillion economy. India’s civil aviation is set to become a defining pillar of Viksit Bharat.
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