AAI Marks 31st Annual Day, Announces ₹25,000 Crore Capex Plan and Major Airport Expansion
New Delhi, April 1, 2026: Airports Authority of India (AAI) celebrated its 31st Annual Day with Chairman Vipin Kumar congratulating employees and highlighting the organisation’s role in driving India’s aviation growth.
India’s Aviation Growth Momentum
AAI noted that India’s civil aviation sector continues to expand rapidly under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu. As the country’s largest airport operator and the sole provider of Air Navigation Services, AAI reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening airport infrastructure and regional connectivity nationwide.
‘Excellent’ MoU Rating and Major Infrastructure Push
The authority secured an ‘Excellent’ rating (93.21 score) under the MoU for FY 2024–25 with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, reflecting strong operational performance and service delivery.
AAI highlighted significant infrastructure milestones during FY2025–26:
- New terminal buildings dedicated at Patna, Datia, Satna, Tuticorin, Purnea, and Halwara
- Foundation stones laid for new civil enclave and greenfield airports at Bihta and Kota-Bundi
- Major development works underway at airports in Dholera, Jammu, Vijayawada, Jodhpur, Rajahmundry, Belagavi, Hubballi, Kadapa, Darbhanga, and Agra
To meet rising passenger demand, AAI has earmarked ₹25,000 crore in capital expenditure from FY2024–25 to FY2028–29.
Passenger Experience and Digital Transformation
AAI expanded several passenger-centric initiatives:
- Digi Yatra now operational at 24 AAI airports
- Initiatives such as AVSAR, Flybrary, free Wi-Fi, and children’s play zones
- UDAN Yatri Cafés launched at 16 airports to offer affordable food options
The authority also launched an Integrated Digital Monitoring Platform using BIM-based project monitoring to enable real-time tracking and data-driven decisions.
Sustainability and Green Energy Push
AAI reported strong progress on sustainability:
- 94 AAI airports now operate on 100% green energy under the SUGAM mission
- Increased adoption of electric vehicles across airports
- Flexible Use of Airspace initiative saved ₹1,230 crore in fuel and reduced 3,87,509 tonnes of CO₂ emissions
Modernising Air Navigation Services
AAI is investing ₹15,000 crore to modernise air navigation systems, including advanced CNS/ATM systems, digital towers, and upgraded ATC infrastructure.
Chairman Vipin Kumar reaffirmed AAI’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and infrastructure expansion aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.