The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has reportedly identified 150 small airports and airstrips for modernisation to address the rising demand for air cargo and the surge in passenger traffic, Mint reported. These airports, selected from over 400 across the country, are largely underutilised. The initiative aims to optimise existing aviation infrastructure under direct government directives.

The selected airports include locations such as Aizawl, Kota, Muzaffarpur, Satna, Ziro, Jalgaon, Asansol, Malda, Jharsuguda, Khandwa, Panna, Raxaul, Vellore, Tezu, Agatti, Akola, Belgaum, Cooch-Behar, Gaya, Gorakhpur, Hubli, Kolhapur, Kandla, Kullu, Pantnagar, and Rajahmundry, according to the report.

The modernisation effort will focus on enhancing air cargo capabilities to support the transport of pharmaceuticals, textiles, electronics, and perishables, which require fast delivery amidst disruptions in traditional trade routes and geopolitical tensions. Additionally, the upgrades will cater to increasing passenger traffic.

AAI will oversee the implementation of modernisation measures, which include extending runways, upgrading passenger amenities to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, and incorporating digital technologies. This initiative coincides with a shift towards air cargo, spurred by rising shipping costs, delays, increased insurance premiums, and the heightened risks of goods in transit.

The plan also envisions advanced infrastructure for cargo handling. Proposals include developing satellite freight cities with multimodal transport links, cargo terminals, cold storage facilities, automated storage and retrieval systems, and mechanised cargo transportation. To enhance operational efficiency, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) systems will be introduced, enabling the seamless exchange of business documents in standardised formats among trade stakeholders.

A senior government official reportedly stated that the initiative is designed to promote tourism, trade, and bridge connectivity gaps in remote and sensitive regions. The modernisation project will prioritise safety, efficient aircraft and cargo handling, and the capacity to meet the growing needs of passengers and the cargo sector.