
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is a statutory body that was formed on April 1, 1995, by the merger of the National Airports Authority and the International Airports Authority of India. The AAI is responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining, and managing civil aviation infrastructure in India, including 110 operational airports and 23 non-operational airports. The organization is divided into five administrative regions, each headed by a Regional Executive Director, and has its corporate headquarters in New Delhi.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Formation | Formed on 1st April 1995 by an Act of Parliament by merging the National Airports Authority and the International Airports Authority of India |
| Purpose | Creating, upgrading, maintaining and managing civil aviation infrastructure both on the ground and in airspace in India |
| Number of Airports Managed | 125-133 airports |
| Number of Operational Airports | 110 |
| Number of Airports with International Operations | 35 |
| Number of Non-Operational Airports | 23 |
| Airspace Managed | 2.8 million square nautical miles |
| Aircraft Handled (2023-24) | 1053.96 Thousand |
| Passengers Handled (2023-24) | 130.67 Million |
| Freight Handled (2023-24) | 688.38 thousand MT |
| Administrative Regions | 5 |
| Training Establishments | 5 |
| Headquarters | Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan, New Delhi |
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What You'll Learn

History and Formation
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) was established on the 1st of April 1995 by an Act of Parliament, the Airports Authority of India Act, 1994. The AAI was formed by merging the erstwhile National Airports Authority and the International Airports Authority of India. The International Airports Authority of India (IAAI) was set up by the Government of India in 1972 to manage the country's international airports, while the National Airports Authority of India (NAAI) was formed in 1986 to manage domestic airports.
The AAI is headquartered in New Delhi and is responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining, and managing civil aviation infrastructure in India. It is entrusted with developing, enhancing, operating, and administering the country's civil aviation infrastructure on the ground and in the country's airspace. The AAI also provides air navigation services across a region of 2.8 million square nautical miles of airspace.
The organization is divided into five administrative regions, each headed by a Regional Executive Director (RED). The Eastern Region of the AAI, headed by Ms. Nivedita Dube, controls 20 airports (including 12 non-operational airports) and four aeronautical communications stations. The Eastern Regional Headquarters, located in Kolkata, West Bengal, coordinates and controls all the activities of the airports and aeronautical communication stations under its jurisdiction.
The AAI has five training establishments, including three ATS training organizations (ATSTO): the Civil Aviation Training College (CATC) in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh; the Hyderabad Training Center (HTC) in Hyderabad, Telangana; and the National Institute of Aviation Training and Management (NIATAM) in Gondia, Maharashtra. In addition, the Indian Aviation Academy (National Institute of Aviation Management and Research (NIAMAR) in Delhi is a joint venture of the Airports Authority of India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (India), and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, Govt of India.
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Roles and Responsibilities
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. It was formed in 1995 through the Airports Authority of India Act, 1994. The AAI is responsible for creating, maintaining, upgrading, and managing civil aviation infrastructure in India. This includes the management of 137 airports, encompassing 23 international airports, 81 domestic airports, 23 civil enclaves at defence airfields, and 10 custom airports.
AAI's roles and responsibilities include:
- Providing Air Traffic Management (ATM) services over Indian airspace and neighbouring oceanic areas. This involves ensuring safe and efficient aircraft operations within Indian airspace, including air traffic control and navigation services.
- Creating, upgrading, and maintaining aviation infrastructure: This includes the construction and maintenance of runways, taxiways, aprons, terminals, and other airport facilities to ensure they meet safety and regulatory standards.
- Ground installations and safety: AAI operates ground installations to ensure the safety of aircraft operations at all airports. This includes navigation aids, lighting systems, and emergency response equipment.
- Rescue and Fire Services: AAI provides highly trained Rescue and Fire Services to deal with aircraft accidents, incidents, and fire risks within airport terminals and other vital installations. They also coordinate with mutual aid agencies within the airport vicinity.
- Surveillance and Inspection: AAI conducts surprise and regular inspections to detect systemic failures, corruption, and malpractices. This includes scrutinizing internal audit reports and annual property returns.
- Vigilance: The Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) heads the Vigilance Division and advises the Chairman of AAI on matters pertaining to vigilance. The CVO also acts as a link between AAI and external agencies like the Central Vigilance Commission. Their role includes collecting intelligence on corrupt practices, investigating allegations, and taking steps to prevent improper practices.
- Human Resources and Recruitment: AAI recruits for various posts, including managerial and engineering roles. They offer vacancies for engineering graduates and diploma holders, providing opportunities for citizens with relevant educational qualifications.
The Regional Executive Director (RED) of the Airports Authority of India is the Executive Head of the Eastern Region and oversees all activities, including operations, security, commercial, safety, finance, and administration.
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Training and Education
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is a statutory body established on April 1, 1995, by an Act of Parliament. The AAI is responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining, and managing civil aviation infrastructure in India, encompassing both ground facilities and airspace. It manages an extensive network of airports across the country, with a total of 133 airports under its management, out of which 110 are operational, including 28 civil enclaves and 8 airports under private control.
The AAI recognises the importance of training and education in maintaining the high standards of India's aviation industry. To this end, the AAI has established five training establishments, including three ATS training organisations (ATSTO):
Civil Aviation Training College (CATC) in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
The CATC is one of the leading aviation training institutions in India. It offers a comprehensive range of programmes covering various aspects of aviation, including air traffic control, airport management, and aviation safety. The college is equipped with advanced training facilities, such as an Aerodrome Visual Simulator (AVS) and non-radar procedural ATC simulator equipment, to provide a practical and immersive learning experience for its students.
Hyderabad Training Center (HTC) in Hyderabad, Telangana
The HTC is another key training institute under the AAI umbrella. It focuses on providing specialised training in areas such as air traffic services, aviation security, and emergency response. The centre is known for its modern facilities and experienced instructors, ensuring that trainees receive a top-notch education.
National Institute of Aviation Training and Management (NIATAM) in Gondia, Maharashtra
NIATAM fills a unique niche in aviation training, offering programmes in aviation management, aircraft maintenance, and related fields. The institute equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage complex aviation operations and maintain the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
Indian Aviation Academy (National Institute of Aviation Management and Research (NIAMAR)) in Delhi
The Indian Aviation Academy is a joint venture between the AAI, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (India), and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, Govt of India. It serves as a centre of excellence for aviation management and research, offering advanced programmes and fostering collaboration between industry professionals and academics. The academy organises workshops, such as the 'Nomination of lnternal Complaints Committee (lCC) Chairperson and Members Workshop', to promote continuous learning and skill enhancement.
These training institutions play a pivotal role in cultivating a highly skilled aviation workforce in India. They provide a solid foundation for professionals entering the industry, ensuring that they are well-versed in the latest technologies, procedures, and safety protocols. Through their comprehensive training programmes, the AAI actively contributes to the advancement of India's aviation sector, promoting efficiency, safety, and innovation.
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Airports Managed
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is a statutory body under the ownership of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. It was formed on April 1, 1995, by the merger of the erstwhile National Airports Authority and International Airports Authority of India. The AAI is responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining, and managing civil aviation infrastructure in India, both on the ground and in its airspace.
AAI manages a total of 133 airports, including 28 civil enclaves and 8 airports under private control. Out of these, 110 airports are operational, and 23 are non-operational. 35 of the 110 operational airports are international airports.
AAI provides air navigation services over 2.8 million square nautical miles of airspace. It has ground installations at all airports and 25 other locations to ensure the safety of aircraft operations. The organisation covers all major air routes over the Indian landmass via 29 radar installations at 11 locations and 700 VOR/DVOR installations co-located with Distance Measuring Equipment (DME).
AAI is divided into five administrative regions, each headed by a Regional Executive Director (RED). The Eastern Region of AAI, headed by Ms. Nivedita Dube, controls 20 airports (including 12 non-operational airports) and four aeronautical communications stations. The Eastern Regional Headquarters, located in Kolkata, West Bengal, coordinates and controls the activities of all the airports and aeronautical communication stations in the region.
The safety of passengers is paramount at airports run by the Airports Authority of India. AAI's highly trained Rescue and Fire Services are always ready to provide rescue and fire protection. There is also an airport emergency plan to coordinate the efforts of mutual aid agencies within the airport and its immediate vicinity.
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Air Traffic Control
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining, and managing civil aviation infrastructure, both on the ground and in the airspace of India. This includes air traffic control, which is a crucial aspect of aviation safety and efficiency.
AAI operates from five regional headquarters, each headed by a Regional Executive Director (RED). The Eastern Regional Headquarters, located in Kolkata, West Bengal, for example, coordinates and controls the activities of 20 airports and four aeronautical communications stations within its region. This includes providing air navigation services and managing the air traffic control centres in Kolkata and Chennai, which have implemented the Automatic Dependence Surveillance System (ADSS). This technology enables air traffic control over oceanic areas using satellite communication, enhancing safety and efficiency in Southeast Asian airspace.
AAI also undertakes flight calibration of navigational aids for various organisations, including the Indian Air Force, Indian Navy, and Indian Coast Guard. This ensures that aircraft can navigate accurately and safely, especially in challenging conditions or when approaching an airport for landing. AAI's dedication to safety and efficiency in air traffic control contributes significantly to the overall aviation infrastructure in India.
Furthermore, AAI has established training establishments to promote aviation education and safety. These include the Civil Aviation Training College (CATC) in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, which has been provided with an Aerodrome Visual Simulator (AVS) and non-radar procedural ATC simulator equipment. By investing in training and technology, AAI ensures that air traffic control personnel are well-equipped and skilled to handle the challenges of managing air traffic in one of the busiest aviation regions in the world.
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Frequently asked questions
The Airport Authority of India (AAI) is a statutory body that is responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining and managing civil aviation infrastructure in India.
The Airport Authority of India was formed on the 1st of April 1995 by an Act of Parliament, which merged the National Airports Authority and the International Airports Authority of India.
The AAI manages 125 airports, including 28 civil enclaves and 8 airports under private control. 35 out of 110 operational airports run international operations. Aircraft movement and passenger handling are among the main functions of the AAI.




























