Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed global aviation leaders at the IATA’s 81st Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit in New Delhi, underscoring India’s rise as a global aviation and space convergence hub. Marking IATA’s return to India after 42 years, Modi celebrated the country’s transformation into the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market.
Modi cited rapid growth in passenger traffic—from 240 million annually to a projected 500 million by 2030—and a surge in cargo movement, expected to triple to 10 million metric tons. He praised the UDAN scheme as a “golden chapter” in civil aviation, enabling over 15 million Indians—many first-time flyers—to access affordable air travel.
India’s aviation growth is supported by an increase in operational airports (from 74 in 2014 to 162), more than 2,000 aircraft on order, and a strong MRO sector, now boasting 154 facilities. Modi emphasised the role of favorable policies—100% FDI, tax reforms, and regulatory changes including the new Indian Aircraft Act—making India an investment magnet for global aviation companies.
Modi spotlighted innovation in digital travel with the Digi Yatra app, India’s focus on sustainability through clean fuels, and its inclusive workforce, with women comprising 15% of pilots and 86% of cabin crew. Calling on global players to “Make in India” and “Design in India,” he invited investment into India’s expanding aviation ecosystem, aiming for a USD 4 billion MRO hub by 2030.
