Adani to invest over ₹1 lakh crore in airports; eyes aggressive bids for 11 more

The Adani Group is set to invest over ₹1 lakh crore in its airports business over the next five years, signaling an aggressive push into India's rapidly expanding aviation sector. This significant outlay is driven by projections that India's air travel market will grow by 15-16% annually for the next decade, transforming it into a global aviation powerhouse. The conglomerate aims to expand its current network by aggressively bidding for the 11 additional airports slated for privatization.

A cornerstone of this strategy is the Navi Mumbai International Airport, a crucial development expected to become operational by December 25th. This new facility, costing nearly ₹20,000 crore, will initially handle 20 million passengers annually, eventually scaling up to 90 million, significantly easing congestion at Mumbai’s existing airport, which has faced capacity constraints since 2016. Beyond new constructions, Adani currently manages seven operational airports, including major hubs like Ahmedabad and Lucknow, serving about 23% of India’s passenger traffic and 33% of its air cargo.

The group's investment extends beyond just terminals and runways. It also includes developing supporting infrastructure such as Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities and Flight Simulation Training Centres (FSTC) to create a comprehensive aviation ecosystem. While specific figures for these ancillary services are still being finalized, they represent a strategic move to diversify revenue streams and deepen the company’s expertise.

This massive expansion aligns with India's ambitious goal to develop between 300 and 400 airports by 2047. By significantly increasing air travel capacity and enhancing operational efficiency, the Adani Group is positioning itself to capitalize on the booming demand for air travel. This strategic investment is ultimately aimed at bolstering nationwide connectivity and supporting India's broader economic growth.