Government weighs easing airport-airline cross-ownership rules after Adani request

The Union government is evaluating Adani Group’s request to relax the 10% airport-airline cross-holding cap, a move that could enable a future airline venture. Any change would require Cabinet approval and is being assessed for competition and consumer safeguards.

— Source publishedTue, 22 Sept, 2026, 17:58 IST·First seen Tue, 22 Sept, 2026, 18:10 IST·Source Indian Express · Business

What happened

Adani Group · The government is considering Adani’s request to relax airport-airline cross-ownership restrictions, potentially enabling an airline venture.

Key facts

  • Adani Group holds 74% stake in Mumbai airport
  • GMR holds 74% stake in Delhi airport
  • Current airport-airline cross-holding cap is 10%
  • Adani operates eight airports in India
  • IndiGo and Air India Group together hold over 90% domestic market share

Why this matters

The review creates regulatory upside optionality for Adani’s aviation strategy, but Cabinet approval, competition safeguards, and execution risk remain key uncertainties.