Important for UPSC Prelims: Economy
Context
- The Ministry of Civil Aviation inaugurated Hub & Spoke International Flight Operations from Amritsar on 28 July 2026.
- Amritsar became the second spoke airport under India’s International Aviation Hub Strategy after Varanasi (25 June 2026).
Hub & Spoke Model in Aviation
- The Hub & Spoke model is an aviation network system designed to improve connectivity by linking regional airports with major international hubs.
- Hub airports act as major connecting points for domestic and international flights.
- Spoke airports connect regional passengers to these hubs for onward international travel.
India’s Hub & Spoke Framework
Under India’s International Aviation Hub Strategy:
- Delhi Airport will function as the major international hub.
- Amritsar Airport will serve as a spoke airport, connecting passengers from Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh to global destinations through Delhi.
Passenger Benefits
- The model enables seamless international travel by allowing passengers to complete check-in, immigration and customs formalities at Amritsar. Baggage is tagged through to the final destination, avoiding repeated procedures at the hub airport.
Significance of Amritsar as a Spoke Airport
- Amritsar is a key international gateway due to its diaspora links, religious tourism, business potential and regional connectivity with Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. The framework will enhance global connectivity.
India’s International Aviation Hub Strategy
- The strategy aims to make Indian airports preferred international gateways by improving connectivity, reducing foreign transit dependence and strengthening India’s aviation sector.
Economic Impact
- The Ministry of Civil Aviation estimates that aviation hub operations will generate 0.4 million jobs and USD 30 billion economic contribution by 2030.
- By 2047, it is expected to support 16 million jobs and USD 1.4 trillion contribution to the economy.
Conclusion
The Hub & Spoke model will strengthen India’s position as a global aviation hub by enhancing connectivity, improving regional access and supporting the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
| Important CTC from this article for UPSC 1. India’s Hub-and-Spoke Aviation Strategy |