Hyderabad: The aviation industry in Asia has gathered in full force at the Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad for the commencement of the four-day “Wings India 24” extravaganza, the largest event in the Civil Aviation sector in the region. The event covers a spectrum ranging from commercial and general aviation to business aviation, and this year’s theme is “Connecting India to the World in Amrit Kaal: Setting the Stage for India Civil Aviation @2047.”
The inaugural session of the Global Aviation Summit was inaugurated by Shri. Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, the Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel. In his opening address, Shri Scindia emphasized the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbkum,” highlighting the role of civil aviation in connecting the world as one family while addressing the aspirations of ordinary citizens to fly.
“The aviation sector is a key driver of economic development, providing significant economic and social benefits. It facilitates tourism, trade, connectivity, generates economic growth, provides jobs, and serves as a lifeline for remote communities,” stated Shri Scindia.
Reflecting on India’s civil aviation growth story, the Minister pointed out that India has witnessed remarkable progress. The total number of domestic passengers has surged from 60 million in 2014 to 143 million in 2020, with expectations to exceed 150 million in 2023. Despite this growth, India remains an under-penetrated market, and efforts are underway to further enhance accessibility, availability, and affordability in the aviation sector.
Shri Scindia discussed the government’s commitment to developing state-of-the-art aviation infrastructure to support the nation’s economic ambitions. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the government has undertaken unprecedented steps, doubling the number of airports from 74 in 2014 to 149 currently. Additionally, ‘in-principle’ approval has been granted for 21 Greenfield Airports, of which 12 are already operational.
Highlighting the success of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN, Shri Scindia revealed that 76 airports in Tier-3 and Tier-4, as well as remote corners of the country, have been operationalized, enhancing last-mile connectivity. The scheme has transformed airstrips and airports, benefitting over 1.32 Crore people through more than 2.5 Lakh flights.
Addressing concerns of capacity building, Shri Scindia emphasized the liberalization of policies to ensure an adequate supply of pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and other resources. The government has increased the number of Flight Training Organizations (FTOs) and issued a record number of Commercial Pilot Licenses (CPLs), with 1,622 CPLs in 2023.
The event witnessed the presence of other key dignitaries, including Minister of State, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Road Transport, and Highways, Gen. (Retd) Dr. V.K. Singh, Minister of Road & Buildings and Cinematography, Government of Telangana, Shri Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, and Joint Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Shri Asangba Chuba Ao.
As “Wings India 24” continues, it promises to be a platform for discussions, collaborations, and advancements that will shape the future of civil aviation in India and Asia.