India to Host 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation

India’s aviation sector has experienced significant growth, evolving into one of the largest and most dynamic markets in the world. With the 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation scheduled from September 11-12, 2024, in New Delhi, India is set to reinforce its leadership in aviation. The conference, co-hosted by ICAO and the Ministry of Civil Aviation, will focus on exploring new opportunities for growth, infrastructure, and collaboration, especially in regional connectivity.

India’s Aviation Growth

India is the fastest-growing aviation market, currently the 3rd largest globally in domestic travel. The number of aircraft has doubled from 400 to over 800, while airports have increased from 74 to 157 in the last decade. Initiatives like UDAN have expanded regional connectivity, allowing even remote areas to join the aviation network.

Key Milestones

The journey of Indian aviation began in 1911 with the first commercial flight between Allahabad and Naini. Tata Airlines (now Air India) launched in 1932, marking the start of scheduled air services. India became a member of ICAO in 1947, playing a crucial role in global aviation safety and collaboration. The 1990s saw the liberalization of the aviation market with the rise of private airlines, followed by the emergence of low-cost carriers in the 2000s. In 2022, Air India’s privatization under Tata Group reinvigorated the sector, further enhancing connectivity.

Future Prospects

With strategic infrastructure expansion, policy reforms like UDAN, and technological advancements, India’s aviation sector is set to grow rapidly. Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and the focus on greenfield airports promise a sustainable future for aviation, with India positioning itself as a global hub for Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services. The collaboration between public and private sectors will continue to drive India’s aviation industry toward unprecedented heights.