HYDERABAD: The second day of Wings India 2024 unfolded with a myriad of insightful roundtable and panel discussions, delving into crucial themes ranging from startups to women in aviation. A notable roundtable discussion focused on ‘Travel and Tourism,’ aimed at formulating a roadmap for sustainable growth in India’s travel and tourism sector. The discourse highlighted the important role played by initiatives like the Atal Tunnel and the emergence of new green destinations in boosting local economies.
The ‘Women in Aviation’ discussion provided a platform for speakers to share stories and insights on how women are overcoming obstacles to make a mark in the aviation industry. The event showcased the resilience and determination of women seeking specific training and influencing organisational dynamics.
Another significant roundtable, titled ‘Drone Technology – Flight to the Future: Drones Revolutionising the Aviation Landscape,’ explored the profound impact of drone technologies on various sectors globally. The discussion specifically highlighted the role of drones in agriculture, showcasing innovative approaches to cultivation and sustainability.
Subsequently, air services operator JetSetGo made headlines by signing a groundbreaking deal for 280 hybrid-electric aircraft, including 130 on option, worth over $1.3 billion with Electra.aero, Horizon Aircraft, and Overair.
India’s First Indigenously Designed Aircraft Seat
In a groundbreaking development for the Indian aviation industry, Timetooth Technologies, a Bengaluru-based Engineering Company, launched India’s first-ever indigenously designed aircraft passenger seat at Wings India 2024. Co-Founder Amitav Chaudhuri highlighted the collaboration with DGCA and Indian airlines in addressing a significant gap in the aviation industry. SpiceJet expressed interest in procuring these state-of-the-art seats, emphasising safety, comfort, and innovation.
Mangaluru International Airport Wins Best Airport Award
Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) secured the prestigious award for the best airport in the under-five million passenger category at Wings India 2024. Recognised for exceptional performance and commitment to passenger satisfaction, MIA witnessed a remarkable 14.17% growth in passenger traffic in 2023, solidifying its position as a leading airport in India. The airport’s dedication to operational efficiency, passenger experience, and sustainable practices promises continued success in the aviation industry.
Unveiling of Airbus A350
The aviation sector in India witnessed a historic moment as Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia unveiled India’s first ‘Airbus A350’ aircraft. This state-of-the-art aircraft not only strengthens Air India’s fleet but also signifies India’s growing stature as a global player in the aviation industry.
Describing the event as a milestone, Minister Scindia highlighted that the A350 would elevate passenger experience, enhance fuel efficiency, and contribute significantly to India’s aviation sector, both domestically and internationally. Air India’s CEO and Managing Director, Cambell Wilson, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the transformative potential of the A350 in opening new routes and opportunities for expansion.
Airbus’s Projections and Growth in India
Rémi Maillard, Chairman FICCI Civil Aviation Committee and President & Managing Director, Airbus (India & South Asia), announced significant projections for India’s aviation growth on the sidelines of Wings India 2024. He shared plans to increase purchases from India to USD 1.5 billion, doubling the current procurement value.
Describing the event as a milestone, Minister Scindia highlighted that the A350 would elevate passenger experience, enhance fuel efficiency, and contribute significantly to India’s aviation sector, both domestically and internationally
Airbus is set to double its sourcing from India to USD 1.5 billion by the end of the decade. Maillard highlighted that India would require 2,840 new aircraft, 41,000 pilots, and 47,000 technical staff in the next two decades, underlining India’s role as a force in global aviation.
Decoding Airbus A350: A Game-Changer
The Airbus A350, fitted with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, boasts the world’s most efficient large aero-engine, resulting in 25 percent lower fuel burn and CO2 emissions. With an impressive range of up to 9,700 nautical miles, the A350 enables non-stop flights from India to destinations in the US, Canada, and Australia. Air India’s A350-900 configuration includes a Business class with private suites, Premium Economy, and Economy class, setting a new standard for passenger experience on Indian airlines.
Public delighted with Multiple Aviation Treats
The Wings India 2024 aviation show, which opened to the public on Saturday and Sunday, featured breathtaking aerobatic displays by the Global Stars Aerobatic team and the Indian Air Force’s Sarang team, performing with indigenous ALH craft. The event offered a spectacular display of aircraft and a myriad of aviation treats. With Sunday marking the last day for public visits, enthusiasts and families flocked to witness the dazzling array of aviation marvels on showcase.
Airbus is set to double its sourcing from India to USD 1.5 billion by the end of the decade. Maillard highlighted that India would require 2,840 new aircraft, 41,000 pilots, and 47,000 technical staff in the next two decades, underlining India’s role as a force in global aviation
The event featured a captivating air show that drew cheers from the crowd, headlined by the Sarang helicopter team. The skilled manoeuvres and aerobatics, including the creation of a heart in the sky using smoke from an aircraft, left the spectators in awe. Renowned percussionist Sivamani’s performance added a musical flair to the event, contributing to the overall festive atmosphere.
However, as the day progressed into the evening, the joyous atmosphere faced a setback as some visitors voiced complaints of discrimination. Allegations arose that certain individuals with ‘recommendations’ were granted special access near the aircraft, while others were restricted, even those who had purchased tickets.
The airshow, featuring a diverse range of aircraft, provided ample opportunities for enthusiasts to capture moments through photographs and experience the thrill of witnessing wide-bodied jets up close.A spiring pilots took advantage of the aircraft simulator, fulfilling their dreams virtually.
The star attraction of the day was Boeing’s latest aircraft, the B777-9, drawing the attention of trainee pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike. In total, 25 aircraft were exhibited, showcasing the latest advancements in aviation technology and design. Families enjoyed a day out, exploring the various aircraft on display.
As Wings India 2024 concludes its public exhibition on Sunday, the event has left an indelible mark, blending excitement, entertainment, and fond memories.
Key Takeaways
Jyotiraditya M Scindia, Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel, released the FICCI-KPMG report on the Indian Civil Aviation industry, during the ‘Wings India 2024’ event. The report provides key insights into India’s aviation sector’s growth.
The star attraction of the day was Boeing’s latest aircraft, the B777-9, drawing the attention of trainee pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike. In total, 25 aircraft were exhibited, showcasing the latest advancements in aviation technology and design
The sector has reported a robust 20.6% year-on-year increase in total air passenger traffic from April to October 2023, surpassing pre-Covid levels. This remarkable growth is attributed to various factors, including economic expansion, improved domestic and global connectivity, increasing urbanisation, and a burgeoning middle class. Indian airlines have placed the largest fleet order globally, with expectations of the commercial fleet reaching 3,500 by 2047, aligning with India’s vision of becoming the largest aviation market by that year.
Contrary to the global trend, where air passenger traffic is expected to recover to pre-Covid levels by 2024, India’s aviation sector is on a robust trajectory. The country has witnessed a significant increase in routes, reaching 517 by November 2023, driven by strategic initiatives such as the Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme. According to the report, more than 131 lakh passengers have benefited from the UDAN scheme on over 250,300 flights.
In a significant development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Boeing India Engineering & Technology Centre (BIETC) campus in Bengaluru, representing Boeing’s largest investment outside the USA. With an investment of Rs 1,600 crore, the 43-acre campus aims to be a hub for innovation, driving advancements in aviation technology. Boeing aims to make the campus a cutting-edge example of Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Make in India-Make for the World’ initiative.
The ‘Wings India 2024’ event witnessed the launch of the new UDAN 5.3 scheme, the Airbus-Air India Training Centre, Airbus manufacturing contracts with TATA ASL and Mahindra Aerospace Structures, and collaboration agreements between GMR and IndiGo to develop sustainable training in the aerospace industry.
The Telangana government’s focus on last-mile connectivity, setting up helipads in each district, and promoting heli-tourism in Hyderabad and Vemulawada were also emphasised. Under UDAN 5.3, new regional airlines and air taxi services have been established.
India is positioning itself as the drone hub of the world, with plans to cover 10,000 women drone pilots under a government-sponsored scheme. Programs like Digi Yatra and reforms in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) are driving new businesses and growth in the sector.
Tax reforms for aviation turbine fuel (ATF), aligning with global standards, and proactive reduction of VAT on ATF by many Indian states, have created a supportive environment for the overall growth of the Indian aviation sector.
