Indian Flyers to Double in 5 Years, Ambition to Commercialise Space Flights
PM Modi highlights India's aviation growth at IATA AGM, projecting massive expansion by 2030 and space flight ambitions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi showcased India's aviation success story at the International Air Transport Association's 81st AGM, projecting that India's flyer footfall will more than double from the current 24 crore to almost 50 crore annually by 2030.
India's aviation ambitions include commercial space flights and integrating interplanetary journeys into civil aviation, leveraging the country's prowess in transformation and innovation.
Speaking at the event, PM Modi emphasized that India should not be viewed merely as an aviation market, but as a value-chain leader. "From design to delivery, India is becoming an integral part of the global aviation supply chain," he stated.
"India should not be viewed merely as an aviation market, but as a value-chain leader. From design to delivery, India is becoming an integral part of the global aviation supply chain. We are working on a futuristic roadmap to maximise India's potential."
Key Aviation Statistics
Highlights of India's Aviation Vision
- Doubling passenger traffic: From 24 crore to 50 crore annually by 2030
- Airport expansion: 350 airports by 2047 (currently 162)
- Cargo growth: Increase from 3.5 to 10 million metric tonnes by 2030
- Space commercialization: Plans for commercial space flights
- Gender diversity: 15% women pilots (3x global average)
- Supply chain leadership: Positioning India as aviation manufacturing hub
PM Modi pointed out that India already has the most inclusive workforce in aviation with 15% of pilots being women, three times the global average of 5%. By 2047, the number of airports will expand to 350, while cargo is expected to increase from 3.5 to 10 million metric tonnes by the end of this decade.
The Prime Minister emphasized India's commitment to innovation in aviation, including plans to integrate space travel into the civil aviation framework. "While these will take time, the country is geared to make this a reality through its prowess in transformation and innovation," he said.
India's aviation sector is poised for unprecedented growth, with the government focusing on infrastructure development, skill enhancement, and technological innovation to support the projected expansion. The integration of space travel into civil aviation represents a bold step toward establishing India as a global leader in next-generation transportation.
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This article is based on reporting from The Times of India
Read the original article on The Times of India