The minimum runway length in most of the Indian regional or remote airports varies between 1"400 meters to 1700 meters which are capable of handling 40-70 seater aircrafts. Around eight non-metro airports have a runway length of more than 2300 meters which is sufficient to handle narrow body aircrafts like A320s and B737s. Around ten non-metro airports have night landing facility. A20-40 seater aircraft can operate at most of the existing regional airports. However, as can be seen from the figure below many of these airstrips are either non-operational or grossly underutilized. They require monetary, fiscal and policy support till they achieve self-sufficiency.
Maintenance, repair and overhaul services
The unused apron and hangers at regional airports cab be utilized in providing Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services to airlines. The Airworks facility at Hosur Airport is one such example. Indian carriers today send their entire fleet out of India at a high cost. Supported with the favorable fiscal policies, the same MRO facilities can be set up in India over 5-8 year period. It would be win-win for airlines, regional airports and the local economy. This requires deep foresight on part of the state governments.
Analysis of fleet and airport infrastructure in regional and remote routes
Fleet Analysis: -
Indian domestic