Civil aviation push aims to strengthen regional connectivity
The Centre’s ambitious hub-and-spoke aviation model is set to expand further, with Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu announcing that flight operations from six additional cities will commence within the next six weeks. The initiative is designed to provide seamless domestic-to-international connectivity while strengthening India’s position as a global aviation hub.
Model to connect Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities
Speaking about the expansion, Naidu said the new phase will build on the successful rollout of the hub-and-spoke model, which enables passengers from smaller cities to access international destinations through major hub airports such as Delhi. The model is intended to reduce travel time, simplify passenger movement and improve connectivity for travellers from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
Under the system, passengers can complete check-in, baggage transfer and immigration formalities at their originating airport before boarding a domestic flight to a designated hub. This eliminates the need for repeated security and baggage procedures during transit, creating a smoother travel experience.
Air India leading phased implementation
Air India has been entrusted with implementing the first phase of the programme under its “Easy Connect” services. The airline recently launched bookings for its inaugural hub-and-spoke operations from Varanasi, with passengers gaining access to multiple international destinations through Delhi. The expansion to six additional cities marks the next stage of the programme and is expected to significantly broaden the network in the coming weeks.
Boost for India’s aviation ambitions
The government believes the hub-and-spoke model will enhance airport infrastructure utilisation, improve aircraft efficiency and increase international traffic from non-metro regions. Industry experts also see the initiative as a major step towards decentralising international travel and supporting the long-term growth of India’s aviation sector.
As the network expands, passengers across more regions will gain easier access to global destinations without relying solely on major metropolitan airports. The upcoming rollout is expected to improve convenience, encourage regional economic growth and reinforce India’s vision of becoming a leading global aviation hub.
