Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a virtual address at the Wings India 2026 aviation summit, announced that India is moving rapidly toward establishing a vast network of more than 400 airports by 2047, making air travel affordable and accessible for every citizen. He stated that aviation in India is shifting from exclusivity to inclusivity, with the government prioritising connectivity for Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
Modi highlighted that the number of airports has grown from 70 in 2014 to over 160 today, with more than 100 aerodromes activated and affordable flying schemes introduced under UDAN. The next phase of the UDAN policy, he said, will further strengthen regional and low-cost air connectivity across the country.
PM Modi: India Emerging as the Aviation Bridge Between Global South and the World
Modi emphasised that India is transforming into a major aviation hub connecting the Global South with the rest of the world. He added that the country is preparing to lead in environmental sustainability by becoming a major producer of sustainable aviation fuel. The Prime Minister also underlined India’s progress in advanced aviation technology, noting that the nation is already a significant manufacturer of aircraft components and has begun domestic production of military and transport aircraft. India is also advancing toward civil aircraft manufacturing and leveraging its geographical advantage, strong domestic feeder network and expanding long-haul fleet capabilities. Modi expressed confidence that India will soon design and manufacture electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, potentially revolutionising future travel by significantly reducing commute times. He reiterated that India is on track to become a major producer and exporter of green aviation fuel, further advancing its role as an aviation gateway between the Global South and global markets.
Earlier, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu inaugurated Wings India 2026 at Hyderabad’s Begumpet Airport, describing it as one of Asia’s most prominent aviation summits. Hosted by the Ministry of Civil Aviation with support from the Telangana government, the event showcases India’s rising strength in aviation manufacturing and growing market demand. Scheduled from January 28 to 31, 2026, Wings India will feature international exhibitions, aircraft displays, aerobatic shows, a global aviation conference, ministerial sessions, CEO forums, B2B and B2G meetings, a job fair and innovation competitions. India’s aviation sector has witnessed remarkable growth over the past decade, with soaring passenger traffic, record aircraft orders and rapid expansion in MRO, pilot training, aerospace manufacturing, cargo logistics and advanced air mobility.
Summary:
India is rapidly expanding its aviation network, with PM Modi announcing a target of 400+ airports by 2047 and stronger Tier-2/3 connectivity under UDAN. He highlighted growth in green aviation fuel, aircraft manufacturing and future e-VTOL development. Wings India 2026 showcases India’s rising global aviation role and booming sector growth.
