CHARTING THROUGH HEADWINDS

The emerging airports of Noida and Navi Mumbai are expected to redefine India's flight path, aligning with the nation's aspirations to connect, thrive, and soar in the skies. However, several critical challenges threaten the success of this multi-airport model, including inadequate forward planning, connectivity issues, and concerns over commercial viability. An in-depth report by VISHAL DUGGAL.

- VISHAL DUGGAL.

When you happen to travel to global metropolises such as London, Paris, and New York, you have an abundance of choices in terms of airports. London boasts Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and London City Airport. Paris offers Charles de Gaulle and Orly Airport, while New York is efficiently served by John F. Kennedy International (JFK), Newark Liberty International, and LaGuardia Airport. Each airfield serves distinct purposes, accommodating international flights, handling domestic routes, or specialising in certain types of air traffic.

The global concept of having multiple airports within the same city or region is gradually finding its way into India. Growing urbanisation, increasing air travel demands, and the need for decongestion at major existing airports are driving factors behind this trend. Following the successful model in Goa, where two bustling airports – at Dabolim and Mopa – coexist, the upcoming Navi Mumbai and Jewar airports exemplify instances where India is embracing the idea of multiple airports within or around the same city.

The approach aims to alleviate pressure on existing airports, accommodate the surging air travel needs, enhance regional connectivity, and contribute to the country’s overall growth in the aviation sector. Navi Mumbai and Jewar airports, poised on the brink of fruition, are envisioned to be catalysts for the development of their respective regions.

The potential of these two airports to create thriving ecosystems and contribute to the broader narrative of Indian aviation is all too evident.

A Shift from Tracks to Skies