Which Indian State Has the Most Airports?

India is one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world, with an expanding network of airports to cater to its vast population and increasing air travel demand. With over 140 operational airports, the country has significantly improved its regional connectivity. But have you ever wondered which Indian state has the highest number of airports? The answer is Uttar Pradesh, a state that has rapidly emerged as a major aviation hub in recent years.

Uttar Pradesh: Leading the Aviation Race

Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India, boasts the highest number of operational airports. As of 2025, the state has nine functional airports, with more under development. This remarkable growth in aviation infrastructure is a result of proactive government policies, increasing air travel demand, and strategic investments. The operational airports in Uttar Pradesh include:

• Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (Lucknow)

• Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (Varanasi)

• Kushinagar International Airport

• Bareilly Airport

• Kanpur Airport

• Prayagraj Airport

• Agra Airport

• Hindon Airport (Ghaziabad)

• Ayodhya Airport (inaugurated in 2024)

Upcoming Developments: Jewar International Airport

One of the most ambitious airport projects in India is the Jewar International Airport (Noida International Airport), which is currently under construction. Once completed, it will be India's largest airport, covering an area of over 5,000 hectares. This mega airport aims to ease congestion at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport and boost regional economic growth.

Why Does Uttar Pradesh Have the Most Airports?

• Large Population & High Demand - With a population of over 240 million, there is a significant demand for air travel, both for domestic and international routes.

• Strategic Location - UP serves as a crucial link between North and East India, making it a prime spot for air connectivity.

• Government Initiatives - The UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, launched by the Government of India, has played a vital role in developing regional airports in the state.

• Religious and Tourism Significance - Cities like Varanasi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Agra attract millions of tourists and pilgrims annually, necessitating better air connectivity.

• Economic & Industrial Growth - With Noida emerging as a major industrial hub and other cities developing rapidly, improved air travel facilities are essential.

Other States with a High Number of Airports

While Uttar Pradesh leads in the number of operational airports, other states also have well-developed aviation networks.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra is one of India's most industrialized states and has eight operational airports, including:

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai) - One of India's busiest airports.
• Pune International Airport
• Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport (Nagpur)
• Shirdi Airport
• Nashik Airport

Additionally, the Navi Mumbai International Airport is under construction and will significantly enhance Maharashtra's aviation capacity.

Gujarat

Gujarat, a business-friendly state, has eight operational airports, including:

• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (Ahmedabad)
• Vadodara Airport
• Surat International Airport
• Rajkot Airport

Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh has seven operational airports, including:

• Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport (Indore) - The busiest airport in central India.
• Raja Bhoj International Airport (Bhopal)
• Jabalpur Airport

The Future of Aviation in India

India's aviation industry is on a rapid growth trajectory, with more airports being developed to meet the increasing demand for air travel. The government aims to have over 200 operational airports by 2040, ensuring greater connectivity across urban and rural areas. Uttar Pradesh's leadership in this sector reflects its vision for economic and infrastructural development.

With projects like Jewar International Airport, Maharashtra's Navi Mumbai Airport, and Gujarat's Dholera Airport, India is set to become a global aviation powerhouse. The expansion of regional airports under the UDAN scheme is also playing a crucial role in making air travel accessible to smaller cities and towns.

As of 2025, Uttar Pradesh holds the record for the highest number of operational airports in India, followed by Maharashtra and Gujarat. The state's strong commitment to improving air connectivity, along with ambitious projects like the Jewar International Airport, ensures that UP will remain a key player in India's aviation growth. However, with continuous infrastructure development across the country, the aviation landscape is evolving rapidly.