Archive · 30 Oct 2025
AAI to Double ATC Infrastructure, Training Capacity by 2030
Imagine air traffic controllers are like the drivers of airplanes in the sky.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is making sure there are enough helpers and the right tools for these controllers.
They plan to build more control towers and make the ones they have better, like adding more lanes to a highway.
They are also going to train twice as many new controllers by the year 2030.
This is important because many current controllers will soon retire, and more planes are flying.
New technology will also help manage the skies more efficiently.
All of this is to make sure flying in India stays safe and smooth as more people start to travel by plane.
AAI is implementing a comprehensive upgrade of India's air traffic management system by 2030.
The plan includes doubling the capacity of Air Traffic Control (ATC) training centers and expanding ATC tower infrastructure.
Significant investments are being made in automation systems for enhanced air traffic management.
The upgrades are driven by the need to accommodate growing air traffic and upcoming retirements of experienced ATC personnel.
AAI aims to ensure safety standards are maintained during this transition period, with temporary flexibility in duty guidelines.
- Who
- Airports Authority of India (AAI)
- What
- Undertaking a major upgrade of the country's air traffic management system, including doubling ATC tower infrastructure and training capacity, and expanding automation systems.
- When
- Plans extend through 2030, with critical recruitment and retirement phases noted for 2024-2026.
- Where
- Nationwide, with specific mentions of training centers in Prayagraj, Hyderabad, and Gondia, and automation upgrades for Kolkata Airport and non-metro airports.
- Why
- To strengthen air navigation services, prepare for future manpower needs due to growing air traffic and upcoming retirements, and ensure the system is future-ready and safe.
- Infrastructure Goal
- Construct 21 more ATC towers by 2030, in addition to the 50 built between 2014-2025.
- Training Capacity Expansion
- Double training capacity by 2030 across existing centers in Prayagraj, Hyderabad, and Gondia.
- Automation Upgrade
- Procurement initiated for new ATM automation systems for Kolkata Airport and 44 non-metro airports.
- Retirement Wave
- Anticipating higher retirements from 2024-2026 due to recruitment in the 1990s.
- ATCO Training Duration
- Minimum of six months intensive training, with some parts deferred to subsequent years.