Airport Authority of India urged to expand internationally

Airports Authority of India (AAI) stated it is interesting in expanding its operations internationally, with the company looking to construct airports overseas (Times of India/PTI/Business Standard, 11-Aug-2010). AAI has already expressed interest in modernising a small airport at Palali in Sri Lanka, AAI's first foray into the international market in approximately 30 years. It plans to identify other similar projects in neighbouring countries. Civil Aviation Minister, Praful Patel, urged AAI to expand internationally and to also look for alternative revenue generation sources to improve its financial structure and opportunities, stating: "AAI must look at every small opportunity to maximise revenue generation … bid for airports here and also outside the country. Change your mindset, without which we are not going to transform into the future. Look for every single opportunity. Bid for airports outside the country. If you have expertise, utilise it and leave a footprint."