The city of Hyderabad witnessed the launch of Asia’s largest Civil Aviation Expo, Wings India 2024, inaugurated by the Union Minister for Civil Aviation and Steel, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia. The event, held at Begumpet Airport, features a diverse range of activities covering commercial, general, and business aviation.
UDAN 5.3 Takes Flight
Major Announcements Highlight the Inauguration
Among the key announcements during the inauguration was the launch of UDAN 5.3, a significant step in enhancing connectivity across the country. Minister Scindia emphasized the crucial role of civil aviation in India’s economic development, describing the sector as a shining star in the global landscape.
Also read | Guidelines to Compensate Air Passengers Affected by Flight Cancellations and Delays in India
India’s Aviation Growth Story
Minister Scindia Highlights Impressive Statistics
Highlighting India’s impressive growth in the civil aviation sector, Minister Scindia shared compelling statistics. The total number of domestic passengers surged from 60 million in 2014 to 143 million in 2020, with expectations to exceed 150 million by 2023. Despite this growth, India remains an under-penetrated market, and projections suggest further expansion, with a target of 635 million domestic passengers by 2030.
State of the Art Aviation Infrastructure
Bold Steps Taken to Ensure a Robust Aviation System
Minister Scindia outlined the government’s commitment to creating a state-of-the-art aviation infrastructure to support a USD 20 Trillion economy by 2047. The focus extends beyond airports and airplanes, encompassing a holistic airline ecosystem. Notable achievements include doubling the number of airports from 74 in 2014 to 149 presently, with plans for 21 Greenfield Airports and capacity enhancements at metro airports.
Also read | Bengaluru Airport Witnesses Impressive Growth in 2023
Seven Major Announcements at Wings India 2024
Key Developments Unveiled during the Expo
Several significant announcements marked the event, including the release of a joint knowledge paper on civil aviation by FICCI and KPMG, the launch of UDAN 5.3, and the inauguration of the Airbus-Air India Training Centre. Other highlights included Airbus manufacturing contracts with TATA ASL and Mahindra Aerospace Structures Pvt. Ltd., collaboration between GMR and IndiGo for sustainable training, the inauguration of the GMR School of Aviation, and a major aircraft order announcement by Akasa Air.
Distinguished Guests Grace the Event
Minister of State, Gen. (Retd) Dr. V.K. Singh, and Other Notable Figures Attend
The event was attended by esteemed guests, including Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Road Transport, and Highways, Gen. (Retd) Dr. V.K. Singh, and Minister of Road & Buildings and Cinematography, Government of Telangana, Shri Komatireddy Venkat Reddy. Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Shri Asangba Chuba Ao, also joined the gathering.
Wings India 2024 promises to be a pivotal moment in the country’s aviation sector, shaping the future of air travel and connectivity in India.
Also read | Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru’s Terminal 2 Receives UNESCO Recognition