Gearing up to expand the aviation sector: Here is how global connectivity will grow through 44 airports
The Government of India has devised an ambitious plan to ensure seamless international air connectivity. Under this initiative, a total of 44 airports will be developed across the country, comprising four ‘hub’ airports and 40 ‘spoke’ airports. A senior government official shared this information on July 28, 2026.
On July 28, 2026, Air India launched flights from Amritsar under the ‘hub-and-spoke’ model. Amritsar is the second airport, following Varanasi, to initiate such flights. Currently, Delhi serves as the sole hub airport, while Varanasi and Amritsar are spoke airports; Ahmedabad is set to become the next spoke airport. This model aims to transform India into a global aviation hub by seamlessly connecting airports in Tier-II and Tier-III cities to international destinations via hub airports. Travelers from smaller cities will be connected to major hub airports—such as Delhi—to catch onward international flights.
What is the Hub-and-Spoke Model?
The hub-and-spoke model is an aviation system wherein airports in smaller cities (spokes) transport passengers to a large central airport (hub), from where they board flights to long-haul or international destinations. Civil Aviation Secretary V. Vumlunmang Vualnam marked the launch of this model at a ceremony at Amritsar Airport. He stated that four hub airports and 40 spoke airports would be developed. Under this model, Air India will connect Amritsar to 27 international destinations via Delhi. Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu stated in a video message that the hub-and-spoke model represents a model of “aviation sovereignty” and “opportunity” for India. The government aims to develop 100 airports and 200 heliports over the next 10 years.
How will ‘Easy Connect’ flights work?
Air India has introduced ‘Easy Connect’ flights under this model. These flights will provide convenience to passengers traveling from cities beyond major hubs. Passengers will be able to check in their baggage at the originating airport and complete immigration formalities there as well. This will enable them to travel seamlessly to international destinations. Air India’s ‘Easy Connect’ flights from Amritsar will connect to 27 international destinations within four hours of arrival in Delhi. These include cities in the US, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia, West Asia, and Southeast Asia.
