Evolving structure of the Indian air network : A complex network approach

In this paper, we analyze the effect of various policy measures undertaken by the Government ofIndia on both the growth and evolution of the Indian Airport Network (IAN). Employing the net work analysis methodology, we undertake the study over a period of 15 years (2005-2020). Thisin fact, is the first study that focuses on the effect of various policy measures on the evolution ofIAN over time. We examine the network using complex network analysis measures, includingdegree, characteristic path length, and clustering structure. The geo-economic characteristics ofthe network and resulting structural changes are also discussed. Careful analysis of the data re veals that IAN can be classified as a scale-free small-world network. The number of connectionof an airport follows power law, with a growing average distance between a pair of airports. Thestructure is resilient to random failures and disruptions. We also use the k-core decompositiontechnique to study the multi-level structure of IAN. The decomposition analysis dis-aggregatesIAN into a hierarchical structure with well-defined, distinct core-bridge-periphery layers. Re sults indicate that IAN is a multi-layered geographical structure with evenly distributed airportsacross the country, whose structures can be traced to socio-economic and politico-institutionaldynamics. Overall, this study provide insights on the the growth and evolution of unexploredIAN