AAI to Invest Rs 3,490 Crore in Air Traffic Management and Navigation Upgrade

The Airports Authority of India has announced a major investment of Rs 3,490 crore to modernise air traffic management and communication infrastructure across the country. The investment will be rolled out between 2026 and 2028 and is aimed at strengthening operational safety, improving efficiency and enhancing the overall resilience of India’s aviation ecosystem.

Out of the total allocation, Rs 1,532 crore has been earmarked specifically for the automation of Air Traffic Management systems at airports. The remaining funds will be utilised to upgrade communication, navigation and surveillance infrastructure at multiple locations. The move is expected to improve coordination between airports, reduce system vulnerabilities and support rising air traffic demand.

The announcement gains significance in the backdrop of a recent technical glitch that disrupted flight operations at Delhi airport. Strengthening digital and operational systems has become a priority as passenger volumes continue to grow steadily across metro and non metro airports.

In addition to infrastructure upgrades, the authority has taken steps to enhance cyber security preparedness. A Request for Proposal has been issued to IIT Madras to serve as a consultant for strengthening the cyber security framework covering both operational technology and information technology systems. The consultancy will focus on designing a robust security architecture and assessing manpower requirements to ensure continuous monitoring and rapid response capabilities.

The civil aviation ministry has also highlighted recruitment efforts undertaken to support operational continuity. Over the last three years, 2,341 technical executive level positions have been filled to maintain service reliability and aviation safety standards.

With expanding airport infrastructure and rising passenger traffic, this investment marks a significant step toward building a future ready and secure air traffic management network in India.