SOARING SKIES, THRIVING ECONOMY: INDIA’S AVIATION VISION 2047

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

• • 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

• • 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.

• • 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.

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

• • 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

• • 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

• • Framework for PPP-based airport development on new sites, reducing congestion in metro hubs.

4. Digi Yatra

• • 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

• • 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

• • 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

• • 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.