The term “AAI” stands for “Airports Authority of India (AAI)”

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) plays a crucial role in the development, maintenance, and management of civil aviation infrastructure across the country. Let’s uncover the full form of AAI and delve into its significant functions and responsibilities.

AAI Background and History

  • The AAI was established as a legal body through the Airports Authority of India Act, 1994.
  • It operates under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India, and is entrusted with the task of enhancing and overseeing the aviation infrastructure in the country.

Functions of AAI

  • Planning, development, operation, and maintenance of both international and domestic airports, including civil enclaves.
  • Control and management of Indian airspace, extending beyond the territorial boundaries of the nation, in accordance with ICAO standards.
  • Development, modification, and management of passenger terminals, ensuring seamless travel experiences.
  • Enhancement and management of cargo terminals at international and domestic airports.
  • Provision of passenger facilities and information systems at airport terminals.
  • Construction and reinforcement of vital operational areas like runways, aprons, taxiways, etc.
  • Provision of visual aids for safe and efficient aircraft operations.
  • Installation of communication and navigation aids, such as ILS, DVOR, DME, radar systems, etc.

AAI’s Infrastructure and Reach

  • AAI manages a total of 126 airports, including 11 international airports, 11 customs airports, 89 domestic airports, and 26 civil enclaves at military airfields.
  • The organization also maintains ground installations at all airports and 25 other locations to ensure safety during special operations.
  • AAI’s coverage extends to major air routes across Indian airspace through 29 measurement system installations and 700 VOR/DVOR installations co-located with Distance Measuring Equipment (DME).
  • Additionally, 52 runways are equipped with Instrument Landing System (ILS) installations, including night landing facilities, and 15 airports have the Automatic Message Transfer System.

Chairperson of AAI

  • Arvind Singh, an IAS officer of the 1988 Maharashtra cadre, has been appointed as the chairperson of AAI.
  • AAI operates under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and manages more than 100 airports across the country.
  • Prior to his appointment, Arvind Singh served as the Additional Chief Secretary (Energy) of the Maharashtra government.

Categorized in: