Expanded Connectivity for Indian Aviation
The Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation has announced the finalization of the Winter Schedule 2025 (WS25) for domestic airlines, significantly expanding the country's air connectivity. The new schedule, which will be effective from October 26, 2025, to March 28, 2026, introduces four new airports to the domestic network: New Amravati, Hissar, Purnia, and Rupsi.
This expansion reflects India's rapidly growing civil aviation sector, which has emerged as one of the fastest globally, positioning the country as the third-largest domestic aviation market. The number of operational airports in India has increased from 74 in 2014 to 163 in 2025.
Key Figures and Operational Details
Under the WS25, a total of 26,495 departures per week have been scheduled to and from 126 airports across the nation. This represents a notable 5.95 percent growth in weekly departures compared to the Winter Schedule 2024. The final slot clearances were received from respective airport operators following a slot conference meeting held in September.
In comparison to the Summer Schedule 2025 (SS25), which saw 25,610 departures per week from 129 airports, the WS25 indicates a strategic adjustment in network operations.
Airline Contributions and Network Adjustments
Leading the domestic operations in the WS25, IndiGo is scheduled to operate 15,014 departures per week. Following closely are Air India with 4,277 flights and AI Express with 3,171 flights weekly.
While the network expands with new additions, operations from several airports have been suspended for the WS25. These include Aligarh, Moradabad, Chitrakoot, Bhavnagar, Ludhiana, Pakyong, and Shravasti airports. This reflects ongoing adjustments to optimize connectivity and operational efficiency within the Indian domestic aviation landscape.
5 Comments
Stan Marsh
This will only benefit major carriers, small regional players get ignored.
Eric Cartman
What about the airports that were suspended? This isn't true expansion for all.
Kyle Broflovski
More flights mean more emissions. We need sustainable solutions, not just growth.
Stan Marsh
Another blow to smaller towns losing air service. Development shouldn't be selective.
Eric Cartman
It's great to see India's aviation sector growing, but we must also consider the environmental footprint of increased air travel and invest in greener technologies.