AAI To Invest Rs 150 Billion In ATC Modernisation By 2028

Airports Authority of India plans to invest around Rs 150 billion in the modernisation of air traffic control infrastructure by 2028, according to Vipin Kumar, Chairman of AAI. The investment will be directed towards upgrading both technology systems and physical infrastructure across airports where ATC operations are managed by the authority.

Speaking on the sidelines of Wings India 2026, Kumar said the modernisation plan was drawn up around six months ago and covers all 119 airports, including privately operated airports where air traffic control services are handled by AAI. The programme is aimed at strengthening operational efficiency, safety and capacity in line with the growth in air traffic.

The proposed investment will cover advanced ATC technologies as well as upgrades to physical infrastructure at airport facilities nationwide. AAI plans to fund the entire programme through its internal resources, without relying on external borrowing.

Kumar also said the authority expects to close the current financial year with total revenue of around Rs 220 billion. While this would be broadly in line with revenue reported in the previous year, he noted that the comparison reflects underlying growth, as last year’s figures included a one-time income.

The planned ATC modernisation is expected to play a critical role in supporting India’s expanding aviation sector and improving airspace management across the country.

Related Stories