India Targets 50 New Airports in 5 Years, Boosting Real Estate Growth
New Delhi: India is set to expand its aviation infrastructure significantly over the next five years with the aim of constructing 50 more airports. This ambitious plan, announced by Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu, is expected to create substantial opportunities for the country’s real estate sector.
Noting that airports serve as the “scaffolding” for the real estate industry, Naidu highlighted the ministry’s active efforts to address height restrictions for buildings near airports while ensuring aviation safety remains a top priority.
India is currently one of the world’s fastest-growing civil aviation markets, with 165 operational airports. The country is on a rapid development trajectory, building a new airport or terminal every 33 days on average. This pace underscores the government's commitment to enhancing the nation's aviation infrastructure and supporting economic growth.
Naidu made these remarks at the National Urban and Real Estate Development Conclave 2026, an event organized by the real estate industry body, Naredco. The conclave serves as a platform for stakeholders to discuss and strategize on the future of urban and real estate development in India.
The minister emphasized the immense growth potential of the real estate sector, projecting that it will be worth $1 trillion by 2030. By 2047, the sector is expected to be valued at $5-7 trillion, reflecting the substantial economic impact of these developments.
In addition to the financial projections, Naidu stressed the importance of focusing on the quality of living alongside standards of living in real estate development. He noted that while focusing on standards of living will create valuable assets, prioritizing quality of living will enhance overall well-being.
This holistic approach to real estate development is crucial for sustainable growth and ensuring that urban spaces are not only functional but also conducive to a high quality of life for residents. The government's initiatives in this regard are expected to attract significant investments and drive innovation in the sector.
The expansion of airports and the consequent boost to the real estate market are part of a broader strategy to modernize India's infrastructure and position it as a global leader in aviation and urban development. The synergy between these sectors is poised to create a robust ecosystem that supports economic growth and improves the quality of life for millions of Indians.