India has solidified its position as the world’s third fastest-growing domestic aviation market, clocking an impressive annual growth rate of 10–12%, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Speaking to global stakeholders, the minister detailed the government’s long-term blueprint to transform the sector, projecting an expansion from the current 164 airports to a staggering 350 by 2047. This massive infrastructure push aims to boost connectivity, support economic growth, and make air travel more accessible across the country.
To meet surging passenger demand, Indian carriers have placed orders for nearly 1,700 new aircraft—an unprecedented scale of investment that underscores confidence in the sector’s future. Naidu highlighted how these orders will significantly enhance capacity, reduce travel times, and strengthen regional links. He also stressed the importance of diversifying operations, including the expansion of helicopter services for tourism hotspots, emergency medical evacuations, and underserved regional routes.
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On the international front, Naidu engaged in high-level discussions with European Union Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas, focusing on deeper collaboration between the EU Aviation Safety Agency and India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Key areas included joint certification processes, cybersecurity measures, and evolving regulations for drones. Separate meetings with top executives from Airbus and Boeing centered on attracting investments for aircraft component manufacturing and setting up advanced Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities within India.
The minister emphasized sustainability as a core priority, advocating greater adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and fuel-efficient technologies to lower operational costs. Such measures, he noted, could play a pivotal role in making air travel more affordable for ordinary citizens while aligning with global environmental goals. At the India Pavilion in Davos, Naidu presented compelling graphics and data showcasing India’s aviation transformation, drawing keen interest from international delegates and investors.
These strategic initiatives reflect India’s determination to emerge as a major global aviation powerhouse, balancing rapid growth with safety, sustainability, and inclusivity in the coming decades.
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