India to Build 50 New Airports in Five Years, Driving Steel Demand

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India to Build 50 New Airports in Five Years, Driving Steel Demand

India is set to significantly expand its aviation infrastructure with plans to develop 50 new airports over the next five years, Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu announced this week. This initiative will build upon the country’s existing network of 162 operational airports, aiming to meet rising air travel demand and strengthen regional connectivity under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme.

Speaking to the media, Minister Naidu emphasized that this expansion plan aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India a global aviation hub. “The government is committed to transforming India’s aviation sector through modern and inclusive infrastructure. These 50 new airports will enhance regional connectivity, tourism, and economic development,” he said.

The scale of this expansion will significantly boost the demand for steel, a core material in airport construction. From terminals and hangars to runways, bridges, and multi-level car parks, steel’s versatility and strength are essential for creating durable, climate-resilient aviation infrastructure. Industry analysts predict that the airport expansion drive could stimulate the consumption of over 2 million tonnes of structural steel in the coming years.

Additionally, the plan is expected to create thousands of jobs across engineering, design, and construction sectors, while boosting allied industries such as logistics, cement, and urban development.

According to a report by Construction World, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has already shortlisted locations for several of these airports, prioritizing underserved and high-potential regions.

This infrastructure push reinforces India’s broader goals under the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) and Gati Shakti Mission, both of which seek to modernize the country’s logistics and transport networks with an emphasis on sustainability and efficiency.