India unveiled an aviation expansion at Wings India 2026, targeting more than 400 airports by 2047 to boost regional connectivity and economic sovereignty for the Global South. The program aims to turn India into a major aviation gateway and strengthen trade links among developing nations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted the network grew from 70 airports in 2014 to over 160 today. In India, air travel is no longer exclusive; it’s becoming inclusive.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said India now designs and builds aircraft domestically. India is no longer just flying aircraft-we are designing, building, and leading global aviation.
During its 2026 BRICS presidency, India linked airport expansion to South-South cooperation and reduced reliance on Western infrastructure. Our goal will be to redefine BRICS as Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability.
The roadmap includes targets for sustainable aviation fuel production to support greener air travel. Expanded connectivity will complement BRICS initiatives like BRICS Pay and national-currency trade mechanisms, fostering tourism and commerce across member states.
