Industry Outlook

India's airport infrastructure sector is experiencing rapid growth, underpinned by strong passenger demand, policy push for regional connectivity, private investments, and digital innovation. The country is poised to become the third-largest aviation market globally.

Key Drivers & Trends

1. Passenger Growth

• India handled over 325 million passengers in FY 2023–24, projected to reach 500+ million by 2030.
• Post-COVID recovery is robust; domestic traffic has surpassed pre-pandemic levels while international traffic rises steadily.

2. Airport Expansion

• India plans to build 80–100 new airports by 2035 (greenfield & brownfield).
• Led by Airports Authority of India (AAI) and private players.

3. Policy & Regulatory Push

• UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme has connected 75+ underserved regional airports.
• National Civil Aviation Policy: Promotes PPPs, monetization, and ease of doing business.
• Airports under National Infrastructure Pipeline (₹1.4 lakh crore capex over 5 years).

4. Privatization & PPP Momentum

• GoI privatized six major airports, with more under National Monetization Pipeline (NMP).
• Private operators investing in retail, hospitality, logistics, cargo terminals.

5. Sustainability & Digitization

• Major airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Cochin) are adopting net-zero targets, solar energy, and waste-to-energy solutions.
• Digital innovations (DigiYatra, facial recognition, e-gates, automation) improving passenger experience.

Cargo & Logistics Boost

• Air cargo throughput ~3.5 million tonnes/year; expected to cross 10 million tonnes by 2040.
• Development of logistics parks, freighter terminals, perishable cargo centres near airports.

Growth Projections

Summary

India’s airport sector is on a high-growth trajectory, propelled by rising air travel demand, robust infrastructure investments, and digital innovation. Government-led policy initiatives, coupled with private sector participation, are transforming Indian airports into modern, green, and globally competitive hubs. Over the next decade, the focus will be on capacity expansion, regional connectivity, sustainable infrastructure, and cargo logistics integration.

Latest Shareholding Pattern of Cochin International Airport Limited