India's Ambitious Aerospace Vision: Aiming for the Skies

Union Minister K Rammohan Naidu outlined India's plans to become a global aviation hub, featuring efforts in infrastructure, integration, and innovation. At the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference, he emphasized growth potentials, indigenous aircraft manufacturing, and eco-friendly fuels. India's aviation sector has seen substantial growth since 2014.

Highlighting the aviation sector's growth potential, Union Minister K Rammohan Naidu on Wednesday said efforts are underway to transform India into a global aviation hub and kickstart domestic aircraft manufacturing.

Addressing the second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation in the national capital, Naidu stressed the importance of infrastructure, integration, and innovation for the sector's sustainable development. He spoke about the necessity of strategic investments and regional collaboration, particularly with the Asia-Pacific region poised to lead global aviation growth.

Naidu detailed the ministry's vision to create a comprehensive aviation landscape that includes helicopters and seaplane operations under the UDAN scheme. Emphasizing India's rapid aviation market growth, he noted a doubling of domestic carriers and passenger numbers since 2014. The country aims to expand its operational airports to 350-400 by 2047 and enhance Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services.

Naidu also underscored the importance of reducing aviation's carbon footprint, revealing targets for blending Sustainable Aviation Fuel with jet fuel. Around 250 representatives from 41 countries are attending the two-day conference, where Naidu was elected Chairman.

(With inputs from agencies.)