New Delhi: The Group Chairman of Sky One Jaideep Mirchandani says that options like ultra-short hybrid aircraft and eVTOLs will be perfect for short-haul travel.
In December 2024, the Aircraft Act, of 1934, was replaced by the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak which regulates and controls critical aspects of aviation, including aircraft design, manufacturing, operations, and sales.
It also introduces a second appeal mechanism for disputes and penalties, ensuring an effective support system for India’s ambitious civil aviation growth. Moreover, the Act is expected to eliminate confusion and contradictions regarding key organisations like the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Industry experts believe it will enhance the ease of business, attract more investment, and strengthen sustainability efforts, making India’s aviation sector future-ready. India’s domestic aviation sector, the backbone of the country’s air travel demand, is also set for a significant transformation.
On November 17, 2024, a record 505,412 domestic passengers departed on a single day, highlighting India’s growing prominence in the global aviation landscape. More than 3,100 flights took off, carrying over half a million passengers. This surge also reflects the rising demand for shorter routes, largely driven by heavy traffic congestion and infrastructure limitations, prompting more people to choose air travel as a viable alternative. While major metros and Tier-I cities are well-connected, short-haul and ultra-short-haul destinations remain underserved.
“Ultra-short hybrid-electric aircraft and eVTOLs could address this gap to an extent by providing more sustainable and efficient travel options. With the introduction of the new aviation Act, India can explore these emerging technologies more effectively in the coming years,” says Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One.
