Indian Aviation gearing up for 2047

A roundtable in Mumbai, under the theme “Reimagining Airport Passenger Infrastructure through Innovation, Technology, and Sustainability,” offered critical insights into building airport ecosystems that are smarter, greener, and future-ready.

The airports of tomorrow are embracing cutting-edge technology to enhance the entire travel experience. Facial recognition, biometric scans, and AI-driven security checks will become the norm, making the journey from check-in to boarding gate smoother and reducing passenger queuing time by 30-40%.

India’s remarkable aviation trajectory—now the world’s third-largest domestic market, contributing 1.5% to national GDP and supporting 7.7 million jobs. Over the last decade, more than 85 airports have been developed, with a roadmap to scale that number to 350 by 2047.

Strengthening digital ecosystems to manage rising cybersecurity risks was also identified as a crucial area of focus. With over $12 billion already invested in air transport infrastructure, India is setting its sights on capturing a $4 billion share of the global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) market by 2031, with the aim of establishing itself as a self-reliant aviation hub.

AI-powered digital twins, integrated multi-modal transport systems, and Net Zero, LEED-certified terminals are pivotal in creating globally benchmarked, passenger-centric infrastructure.

There is a need to build infrastructure that is resilient, adaptive and efficient. “Greenfield airports offer the luxury of blank canvas while brownfield sites push us to rethink with constraints for unique, smart and adaptive design solutions. The future lies in modular construction, digital first terminal cores that centralize operations, passenger movement and energy management. Early-stage collaboration is critical—drawing insights from operations, policy shifts, and tech trends helps avoid costly course corrections. We need a terminal design language rooted in sustainability, with built-in readiness for climate volatility, aging demographics, rapid digital changes and hybrid spaces that can handle intensity and downtime with equal ease. Aligning this vision with financial models that attract private investment is the key to delivering infrastructure that’s future-ready and locally responsive.”

India is fast emerging as a global aviation talent hub, yet faces a significant manpower gap. While pilot eligibility has widened, training for cabin crew and ground staff remains limited to in-house airline programs. Opening this up to universities and private institutes is the key to scaling talent and meeting both domestic and international demand. With inclusive frameworks and the right incentives, India can not only bridge its local workforce shortage but also position itself as a global training destination, strengthening our role in the international aviation ecosystem.”

India’s unique needs and are setting global benchmarks. With under 10% of the population currently flying, we’re preparing for exponential growth by scaling smart, cost-efficient technologies. India’s rapid pace of innovation is not only enhancing domestic operations but creating airport solutions the world is now adopting.

By adopting AI, ML, RFID, and Advanced Passenger Information systems, there is a shift from manual checks to smarter, targeted interventions. This transformation will make our infrastructure both more secure and passenger-friendly—essential for India’s aviation future.”

With surging passenger traffic, cities like Mumbai may need new airports by 2040. Despite the volume, our operational teams perform impressively, and Mumbai ranks high globally for efficiency. India has a real opportunity to transform its aviation ecosystem by 2047.