India Expands Hub & Spoke Aviation: Amritsar Becomes Second Gateway for Seamless Global Travel

The Government of India has started a new system called Hub & Spoke International Flight Operations from Amritsar Airport. 

The Ministry of Civil Aviation today inaugurated Hub & Spoke International Flight Operations from Amritsar, making it the country’s second spoke airport after Varanasi. This milestone strengthens India’s aviation hub strategy, enabling seamless international connectivity via Delhi and positioning Amritsar as North India’s global gateway.

Nearly 35% of Indian international passengers transit through foreign hubs (Dubai, Singapore, London) before reaching their final destination. This means foreign airports and airlines earn revenue from Indian passengers, while India loses out on jobs, tourism, and trade opportunities.

This new Hub & Spoke International Flight Operations from Amritsar Airport will reduce foreign dependence by keeping international transfer traffic within Indian airports instead of routing passengers through overseas hubs like Dubai, Singapore, or London. This strengthens Indian airlines, boosts local airports, and ensures that India captures the economic benefits of global connectivity.

What Is Hub & Spoke?

• Delhi Airport is the “hub”.
• Airports like Amritsar are “spokes” connected to Delhi.
• Passengers from Amritsar can now check in, clear immigration and customs right at Amritsar.
• Their luggage will go directly to the final international destination.
• At Delhi, they just change planes — no need to repeat immigration or baggage checks.

Why It Matters for People

• Earlier, Amritsar had direct flights to only 7 international destinations.
• Now, through Delhi, passengers can reach 20+ destinations worldwide with a single check‑in.
• Every year, 1.5 lakh people travel from Amritsar to Delhi just to catch international flights. Another 1.5 lakh arrive via Delhi to reach Amritsar.
• With this system, travel becomes faster, easier, and cheaper.

Benefits for Punjab & North India

• Amritsar will act as a gateway for Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh.
• Strong diaspora connections (UK, Canada, Middle East) will benefit.
• Tourism, trade, and jobs will grow.
• Government studies say this system can create 40 lakh jobs by 2030 and add USD 30 billion to India’s economy.

What Leaders Said

• Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu: “Hub & Spoke is not just an aviation model, it is an opportunity model. Amritsar will become a major international gateway.”
• Government Vision: Under PM Modi’s leadership, India wants to build its own global aviation hubs, so passengers don’t have to depend on foreign airports like Dubai or Singapore for connections.

🔑 The Bigger Picture

• India’s plan is to create 4 hub airports and 40 spoke airports.
• Delhi is the first hub, with Varanasi and Amritsar as spokes.
• More airports will join soon, making international travel seamless from regional India.
• This supports the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, aiming for a strong, connected, and globally competitive India.

In short, Amritsar passengers can now fly to the world with one check‑in, one baggage tag, and zero hassle at Delhi.

India’s Hub & Spoke model is about aviation sovereignty — ensuring Indian airports, not foreign ones, become the gateways for international travel. By 2030, India plans 4 hub airports and 40 spoke airports, creating a nationwide system that keeps passengers, revenue, and jobs within the country.

Adani & China’s DragonPass Team Up to Elevate Indian Airports' Luxury

Adani Digital Labs (ADL), the digital innovation arm of the Adani Group, has teamed up with Guangzhou, China-based Dragonpass to enhance airport lounge experiences across Adani-managed airports and beyond. This partnership aims to provide personalized services for different traveler segments, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.

Through this collaboration, Dragonpass gains access to all Adani-managed airport lounges, along with additional key lounges across India. The initiative is expected to optimize lounge operations, combining ADL’s technological infrastructure with Dragonpass’s global expertise in travel service management.

Adani Digital Labs, the digital innovation arm of the Adani Group, focuses on streamlining passenger journeys, enabling cashless ecosystems, and integrating digital-first conveniences into airport operations. This partnership marks a significant shift in India’s airport hospitality landscape, opening avenues for differentiated customer value propositions (CVPs)

With over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide,, DragonPass is a global digital airport platform that offers travelers a range of premium services, including airport lounge access, dining discounts, limousine services, and personal meet & greet concierge options. also has offices in Singapore and Hale, United Kingdom.

“We are excited to partner with Dragonpass, a global leader in digital travel services. This direct engagement allows us to unlock new opportunities, optimise our airport offerings, and deliver a seamless experience to travellers across India,” said the Adani Digital Labs spokesperson.

"We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Adani, a leading lounge operator. This collaboration aligns with our mission to provide travellers with seamless access to exceptional airport lounge experiences. By working together with Adani, we aim to enhance comfort and convenience for our customers across multiple locations. We are confident that this partnership will further elevate the travel experience, offering travellers a superior journey every step of the way.’’ – Georgios Sikovaris, Head of Lounge and Airline Partnership at Dragonpass.

Hyderabad Airport Become India's First to Implement AI-powered Digital Twin Platform

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad has become the first airport in India to implement an Al-powered digital twin platform with a predictive operation center (APOC). This innovative system uses real-time data from over 40 parameters to optimize operations and enhance the passenger experience.

The AI-powered digital twin platform at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad was developed by GMR Airports. They collaborated with various technology partners to integrate advanced digital technologies, including AI, IoT, and real-time analytics, to create this innovative system.

We take immense pride in presenting The Digital Twin Platform to power the next-generation Airport Predictive Operations Centre (APOC). This marks the beginning of a new era for GMR Aero flagging off at #RGIAirport, Hyderabad.

Come and witness unparalleled passenger experience… pic.twitter.com/aCYvGSqXuF

— RGIA Hyderabad (@RGIAHyd) December 11, 2024

Key Features:

• Integration: Combines airside, landside, and terminal operations into a unified system.
• Real-Time Data: Uses IoT and sensors to collect data for quick decision-making and seamless operations.
• Predictive Analytics: Employs Al and prescriptive analytics to proactively address operational challenges. 
• Enhanced Passenger Experience: Reduces wait times, optimizes passenger flow, and ensures personalized services.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu praised the initiative, calling it a potential model for other airports nationwide. The technology is expected to be deployed at other GMR-operated airports, including Delhi Airport, in the coming months.

GMR Airports Limited, formerly known as GMR Airports Infrastructure Limited, is a leading global airport platform company. They have over two decades of experience in designing, constructing, and operating world-class sustainable airports.

In India, GMR Airports operates several key airports including Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, and Goa International Airport.

GMR Airports also operates Mactan Cebu International Airport in the Philippines and Kualanamu International Airport in Indonesia.

Tata Power and Noida Int'l Airport Ink MoU for Smart Energy Infrastructure

Tata Power has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Noida International Airport (NIA) to develop a smart energy infrastructure. This partnership aims to make NIA one of India's most eco-friendly airports by integrating renewable energy into its operations.

Tata Power Trading Company Ltd. (TPTCL) will be at the forefront of this partnership, managing the complete renewable energy portfolio interface, and ensuring NIA’s clean energy needs are met through a comprehensive Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Under this arrangement, TPTCL will supply 10.8 MW of wind power for NIA, with secured assets from Tata Power Renewable Energy Ltd. (TPREL).

TPREL will also develop, operate, and maintain a 13 MW onsite solar power capacity to contribute to the airport’s overall energy needs. Together, TPREL’s wind and solar installations will supply the airport’s sustainable power needs, underscoring Tata Power’s dedication to building sustainable airport infrastructure.

The total investment is Rs 550 crore (approximately $66 million).

The agreement spans 25 years, covering the development, operation, and maintenance of the energy infrastructure.

The collaboration aims to support the development of Net Zero Airports, catering to millions of passengers while accelerating India's path towards a greener future.

This partnership showcases Tata Power's commitment to sustainable energy solutions and NIA's vision for environmentally conscious airport operations.

The first phase of NIA, featuring one runway and one terminal, will have the capacity to handle traffic of 12 million passengers annually. Upon completion of all four development phases, the airport will be able to cater to 70 million passengers per year.

NIA is expected to become India's largest airport and one of the largest in the world upon completion. It will also serve as a significant connection point in the Asia Pacific region.

Apart from the recent partnership with Noida International Airport, Tata Power has been involved in several other airport projects to provide sustainable energy solutions. Tata Power has been supplying renewable energy to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, helping the airport reduce its carbon footprint.

Tata Power has provided solar power solutions to Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), Delhi, contributing to the airport's green energy initiatives.

Tata Power has been involved in developing and maintaining solar power infrastructure for Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA).

Wipro and Menzies Aviation Expand Partnership to Roll-Out MACH Cargo Management System to 28 New Stations in 2025

Wipro and Menzies Aviation have indeed expanded their partnership to roll out the Menzies Aviation Cargo Handling (MACH) system to 28 new locations by 2025. This innovative cargo management system has already been deployed at 24 locations across four continents, with an additional 13 airports set to go live soon.

The MACH system, which was launched in November 2023, has revolutionized operations at major airports like Auckland Airport (AKL), Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), and O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), managing over 150,000 tonnes of cargo. It provides real-time data insights, enhances accessibility, and improves operational efficiency through its cloud-based architecture.

This expansion is a testament to the successful collaboration between Wipro and Menzies Aviation, leveraging advanced automation and real-time data integration to handle more shipments with fewer resources.

MACH seamlessly integrates with other systems helping to simplify and standardise all processes. An integral part of the cargo management ecosystem, it improves data accuracy as all electronic information is populated automatically across the system.

Rory Fidler, SVP Cargo Technology, Menzies Aviation, said: “We are very excited to confirm the second phase of the MACH roll-out, which will see the system implemented at an additional 28 locations across the world. The first phase of the programme will be completed over the coming months, which is testament to the successful offering, and sharing the multiple benefits of this pioneering and cutting-edge system to our airline customers across our global network.”

Omkar Nisal, UKI Managing Director, Wipro Limited, said: “Leveraging advanced automation, real-time data integration, and streamlined workflows, our solution is helping Menzies handle more shipments with fewer resources, leading to cost savings and faster turnaround times. Through real-time data integration, Menzies is now able to have better visibility into the supply chain, allowing them to identify and resolve issues promptly, thus ensuring timely deliveries and customer satisfaction. We are committed to continually raising the bar on our work for Menzies and bringing these leading technology solutions to the broader Cargo industry.”

Kenyan Court Suspends Adani's Plan to Invest in Biggest Airport

A Kenyan court has temporarily halted Adani Group's proposal to invest in and manage Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for 30 years. The court's decision came after legal challenges argued that the deal was unconstitutional and posed significant fiscal risks.

The $1.85 billion investment plan included upgrading the airport and constructing a new runway and passenger terminal.

The decision to allow Adani Group to invest in and manage Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport was challenged by the Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission. They argued that the deal was unconstitutional, posed significant fiscal risks, and did not offer value for money to the taxpayer.

The Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission argued that the deal was made without adequate public consultation, which is a requirement under the Kenyan Constitution.

Concerns were raised about the transparency of the negotiation process and whether it adhered to principles of accountability. The organizations questioned whether the deal posed significant fiscal risks to the country, potentially burdening taxpayers without clear benefits.
The temporary halt of Adani Group’s proposal to invest in Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport could have several implications for Kenya’s infrastructure development. The planned upgrades, including a new runway and passenger terminal, will be postponed, potentially affecting the airport’s capacity and efficiency.

This decision might create uncertainty for future foreign investments in Kenya’s infrastructure projects, as investors may become cautious. The delay could impact economic growth, as improved airport infrastructure is crucial for boosting tourism and trade.

The Kenyan government may need to reassess its strategy for attracting and managing large-scale infrastructure investments.

Adani Sets Up Two New Subsidiaries in Kenya and China

Adani Enterprises has established two new subsidiaries, one each in Kenya and China. The Kenya subsidiary named Airports Infrastructure PLC (AIP) aims to take over, operate, maintain, develop, design, construct, upgrade, modernize, and manage airports in Kenya.

The company is currently in talks to invest in the Nairobi airport, which would mark Adani's first international venture in the airport business.

The other new wholly- owned subsidiary Adani Group has incorporated named Adani Energy Resources (Shanghai) Co., Ltd is domiciled in Shanghai, China, said the company in an exchange filing. It is formed to carry out supply chain business and project management services.

Adani Global will 100% share capital in newly incorporated Adani Energy Resources (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.

This move is part of Adani's broader strategy to expand its operations globally. 

To recall, in early of last month Adani Airport Holdings Ltd. incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary named Global Airports Operator LLC in Abu Dhabi to handle investment, acquisition, construction, operation, and maintenance of airports outside India.

Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is a major hub in East Africa. Managing this airport could provide Adani with a strategic advantage in the region, enhancing connectivity and trade routes.

It was in July this year when it was reported that Adani Airport Holdings Ltd. has submitted a proposal to Kenya's government for investing in its main airfield, the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi,

As per media reports, Adani Group is currently in talks to invest in the Nairobi airport. The group currently operates seven airports in India and is set to commission a new airport in Navi Mumbai. If successful, Kenya will be the Adani group's first international foray in the airport business.

By leveraging their experience in managing airports in India, Adani can bring operational efficiencies and innovations to the Kenyan market, potentially setting new standards in airport management.

Adani Incorporates New Subsidiary in Abu Dhabi for Running Airports Outside India

Adani Airport Holdings Ltd. has recently incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary named Global Airports Operator LLC in Abu Dhabi. This new entity is set up to handle investment, acquisition, construction, operation, and maintenance of airports outside India.

Adani Airport Holdings currently manages several airports in India, including those in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Lucknow, and is looking to expand its operations internationally.

Adani Group has significantly expanded its presence in the Indian aviation sector through Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL).

Adani Group manages eight airports in India including Mumbai (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport), Ahmedabad (Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport), Lucknow (Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport), Mangaluru (Mangaluru International Airport), and Jaipur (Jaipur International Airport) among others. 

Adani Airports handle about 25% of India's passenger traffic and 33% of the country's air cargo traffic. The group aims to transform these airports into world-class destinations, enhancing the overall passenger experience and integrating advanced infrastructure. They focus on creating seamless and secure airport environments, redefining the relationship between cities and their airports.

With the incorporation of Global Airports Operator LLC in Abu Dhabi, Adani Group is looking to expand its airport operations internationally.

Adani Group has announced a significant investment of ₹60,000 crore over the next 5-10 years to expand its airport business1. This investment aims to increase the capacity of the airports managed by Adani Ports up to three times by 2040.

Adani Submits Proposal to Kenya Govt for the Country's Biggest Airport

Gautam Adani's portfolio firm Adani Airport Holdings Ltd. has submitted a proposal to Kenya's government for investing in its main airfield, the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, reported Bloomberg.

The proposal, as per the statement by KAA acting Managing Director Henry Ogoye, includes plans to build a new passenger terminal, a second runway, and refurbish existing facilities. The investment required is substantial, estimated at $1.85 billion, with the first five years of the proposed upgrade project requiring around $830 million.

However, the proposal is yet to undergo technical, financial, and legal reviews to comply with the nation's public-private partnerships laws. Neighboring Ethiopia, which operates Africa's largest airplane fleet, has also been expanding its aviation infrastructure in recent years, challenging Kenya's regional aviation hub status.

To recall, in early of last month, Adani Group (represented by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. joint venture) already entered Africa by acquiring a 95% stake in a container terminal company at the Port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. According to an exchange filing, Adani collaborated with Abu Dhabi-based logistics firm AD Ports Group and East Harbour Terminals Ltd. to acquire Tanzania International Container Terminal Services Ltd. for $39.5 million

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi faces several challenges that highlight the urgent need for infrastructural IMPROVEMENTS. The facilities at JKIA date back several decades, and many components require modernization to meet current standards. Over the past ten years, JKIA has suffered from insufficient facility and infrastructure capacity upgrades. Even temporary interventions have become permanent solutions, contributing to the current state of affairs and service disruptions.

Recently, videos emerged showing leaking roofs at JKIA, emphasizing the need for urgent repairs and maintenance. In April 2023, JKIA experienced an engine failure during takeoff of a Singapore Airlines Cargo plane, leading to an eight-hour shutdown. A second runway could have prevented such disruptions.

Notably, a previously planned Greenfield terminal project faced contract and litigation issues, resulting in delays.

Despite these challenges, there is optimism. Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) has proposed a significant investment to modernize JKIA, addressing infrastructure deficiencies and paving the way for growth and enhanced competitiveness in the region.

JKIA is located in Embakasi, a suburb of Nairobi, is Kenya's largest and busiest airport. It serves as the main gateway to the country, connecting Kenya to various international destinations.

In 2023, the number of passengers at JKIA surged to 8.2 million, accounting for 67.3% of all passengers in Kenya. JKIA's significance as an aviation center sets the pace for other airports in the region, and it continues to play a vital role in East and Central Africa's air travel landscape.

Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) took flight in 2019 with a vision to transform airport experiences. As a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Ltd, AAHL manages seven top-tier airports in India: Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Jaipur, Guwahati, and Thiruvananthapuram.

AAHL's reach extends further with the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIAL), ushering in a new era for India's aviation sector¹². AAHL's commitment lies in curating exceptional journeys, from personalized services to innovative facilities, making airports gateways of wonder. They prioritize route development, retail experiences, digital transformation, elevated service quality, and sustainability initiatives.

L&T Construction To Construct the Bhogapuram International Airport

The Buildings & Factories & Transportation Infrastructure businesses of L&T Construction have secured a prestigious project from the GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited for the Engineering, Procurement and Construction of the greenfield Bhogapuram International Airport at Bhogapuram, Andhra Pradesh.

The project will initially be developed to handle 6 MPA (million passengers per annum) capacity to be further enhanced to a capacity to handle 12 MPA.

The key development works includes cut & fill works, terminal works with airports systems, ATC tower, airfield development works (South Runway 3800m Length, Apron, Taxiways, Airfield Ground Lighting, Fuel Hydrant works & other facilities), landside facilities (roads, landscapes, etc.), utilities & other support facilities.

The airport will be a smart airport proposed to be developed with green construction technologies and will be a smart-airport with a focus on environment sustainability and social development of the region through an inclusive approach.

Larsen & Toubro is presently executing the construction works of major airports at Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, and Navi Mumbai.

The order further reinforces L&T’s capability to deliver a greenfield airport project end-to-end and affirms the Company’s EPC capabilities and strengthens the trust and satisfaction reposed by customers demonstrated by this repeat order from GMR.

Bhogapuram is a village in Vizianagaram district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is about 40 kilometres (25 mi) north-east of Visakhapatnam.

The current Visakhapatnam Airport is a civil enclave on a naval airfield which operates only one international flight due to its status as a "restricted international airport".

The upcoming airport's foundation stone was laid by the-then Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh N. Chandrababu Naidu in February 2019 and then it was re-laid on 3 May 2023, and the project is due to be completed by March 2025.