India Transforms Air Travel to be More Inclusive and Affordable, PM Modi Asserts

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the potential growth of India's aviation sector, noting that air travel has become more inclusive and affordable. He highlighted the success of the regional connectivity scheme, UDAN, which has enabled more people from smaller cities to travel by air. Modi encouraged representatives from Asia Pacific countries to study this scheme and consider creating similar opportunities through aviation in their regions.

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UDAN Scheme's Impact

The UDAN scheme has significantly impacted India's aviation landscape, with 14 million people having travelled under it. Many of these travellers experienced flying for the first time. The scheme aims to make air travel safe, affordable, and accessible to all, particularly benefiting the lower middle class. Modi stated that Indian airlines are expanding their fleet and network to support this growth.

Addressing nearly 300 representatives from 29 countries at the second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation in Delhi, Modi proposed an international Buddhist circuit via air connectivity. This initiative would benefit countries and people by fostering economic growth, innovation, and peace in the Asia Pacific region. He stressed the importance of creating a network of opportunities through aviation.

India's Aviation Growth

Modi highlighted that India's aviation sector has seen unprecedented growth over the past decade. The sector has become more inclusive compared to the past when it was exclusive to a few. He noted that India is now a strong pillar of the global aviation ecosystem and one of the top civil aviation markets. Efforts are underway to make India a global aviation hub with extensive air connectivity.

The prime minister also underscored the need for investments in infrastructure, skilled manpower, and upgraded technology for the sector's development. He pointed out that the aviation sector creates highly skilled jobs and stressed women-led development within this segment. In India, 15 per cent of pilots are women, compared to a global average of 5 per cent.

Future Prospects

Modi suggested a comprehensive approach regarding air routes taken by professionals in the Asia Pacific region, which is also a business hub. He mentioned that amid rising travel demand, initiatives are being taken to promote advanced air mobility. "The day is not far when travel by air taxi will be a reality," he said.

The two-day conference concluded with Modi proclaiming the Delhi Declaration. This event brought together transport and aviation ministers, regulatory bodies, and industry experts from across the Asia Pacific region. The conference aimed to shape the future of aviation through shared commitment and collaboration among participating countries.

India's growing middle class is driving demand in the aviation sector. Modi emphasised that this demographic shift is crucial for sustainable growth and innovation within the industry. He reiterated that making air travel accessible to all remains a key goal for his administration.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi's address highlighted India's strides in making air travel more inclusive and affordable while positioning itself as a significant player in global aviation. The UDAN scheme's success serves as a model for other countries in the Asia Pacific region to emulate, fostering regional connectivity and economic growth through aviation.