India’s evolution to world’s third-largest domestic aviation market over past decade
- IBEF
- January 29, 2026
Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi pointed out that the Indian aviation industry has experienced a historic shift in the last ten years, changing from a luxury transport service exclusively available to a few to the third-largest domestic aviation market in the world. Addressing the Wings India 2026 event through a video message at the Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi noted that air transport is no longer the privilege of a select few but is gradually being made available to all Indians. Referring to the success story of the UDAN regional connectivity scheme, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi mentioned that nearly 1.5 crore passengers have travelled on routes that did not exist a decade ago, thereby greatly improving connectivity between Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi emphasised that this inclusive growth is a measure of the sector’s size, dynamism, and socio-economic development, while also demonstrating the country’s capabilities in aircraft manufacturing, advanced air mobility, and aircraft leasing.
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi said that Wings India has transformed itself from a summit to a major platform that helps shape the future of the country’s aviation sector and attracts the attention of the global community of investors and aviation leaders. Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi underscored that India is now a land of aviation opportunities, with increasing routes, greater industry engagement, and continued government support, giving a boost to the aviation sector’s future. The largest civil aviation show in Asia is being held in the country, and the event will continue throughout the week, thereby reiterating the government’s vision to increase connectivity, innovation, and growth in the aviation sector in India.
Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.
Partners
