Published Paper Details:

Passenger aviation has emerged as a significant force in transforming regional economies by improving accessibility, accelerating tourism movement, and opening new avenues for entrepreneurial activity. In developing regions, the interconnection between aviation, tourism, and hospitality has become increasingly important for fostering innovation-driven growth. This study investigates the contribution of passenger airlines to tourism expansion, hospitality sector development, and entrepreneurial opportunities in the Jalgaon region of Maharashtra, a Tier-III destination with growing economic and tourism prospects. The paper examines how enhanced air connectivity influences travel demand, visitor inflow, accommodation utilisation, and the growth of hospitality-related businesses such as hotels, eateries, travel services, and support enterprises. It further evaluates the role of passenger aviation in encouraging local entrepreneurship by enabling market access, stimulating service innovation, and strengthening linkages within the regional tourism ecosystem. The study also considers the impact of regional airport operations on destination branding and business confidence. A descriptive and analytical research approach is adopted, combining primary data collected through surveys and structured interactions with hospitality entrepreneurs, tourism stakeholders, and aviation professionals, along with secondary data sourced from official aviation and tourism publications. The findings reveal a strong association between passenger aviation development and increased tourism activity, which in turn supports the expansion and diversification of hospitality enterprises in the region. Improved connectivity has facilitated higher tourist arrivals, enhanced service quality, and the emergence of innovative small-scale ventures. The study concludes that passenger aviation functions as a strategic enabler rather than merely a mode of transport, playing a vital role in promoting tourism-led entrepreneurship and innovation within the hospitality sector of regional economies. The findings offer practical implications for policymakers and planners seeking integrated approaches to sustainable regional tourism and enterprise development.