India’s Soaring Ambitions: flyers to double in 5 years

India’s aviation sector is poised for unprecedented growth, with annual passenger numbers expected to double to 500 million by 2030. PM Narendra Modi, at the IATA AGM, emphasized India's ambitions, including commercial space travel, tripling air cargo capacity, and expanding airports from 162 to 350 by 2047. India leads inclusivity with 15% female pilots and aims to become a $4 billion MRO hub by 2030. With innovation, sustainability, and streamlined policies, India is redefining aviation and setting global benchmarks.

India’s aviation sector is on the cusp of a historic transformation, with passenger numbers projected to more than double from the current 240 million to nearly 500 million annually by 2030, surpassing the population of many countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted this remarkable growth trajectory during the 81st Annual General Meeting of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) held in India after a 42-year hiatus.

A Vision Beyond the Skies

Addressing the global aviation community, PM Modi shared India’s bold ambitions, which extend beyond conventional aviation milestones. The country envisions integrating commercial space travel and interplanetary journeys into its civil aviation framework. While acknowledging that these advancements would require time, the Prime Minister emphasized India’s ability to achieve them through innovation and transformative capabilities.

One of India’s crowning achievements in aviation is its inclusivity. Women make up 15% of India’s pilots—significantly higher than the global average of 5%. By 2047, India plans to expand its number of operational airports from the current 162 to 350, while air cargo capacity is expected to nearly triple, growing from 3.5 million metric tonnes to 10 million metric tonnes by the end of this decade.

Becoming a Global MRO Hub

PM Modi also spotlighted India’s emergence as a global leader in Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services. The sector is projected to be worth $4 billion by 2030, driven by policy reforms such as 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) under the automatic route, reduced GST rates, and rationalized taxation structures. India currently has 154 MRO facilities, a significant jump from 96 in 2014.

“India should not just be seen as a market but as a leader in the aviation value chain,” Modi stated. He urged the global aviation ecosystem to “not just make in India but also design in India,” underscoring the country’s growing role in the global supply chain from conceptualization to delivery.

A Rapidly Growing Aviation Market

India’s aviation industry has experienced exponential growth over the past decade. In 2014, the nation had only 74 operational airports; today, that number has more than doubled to 162. This expansion reflects India’s rise to become the third-largest aviation market globally. Indian airlines have also placed orders for over 2,000 new aircraft, an indication of the sector’s robust growth and future potential.

The government’s focus on creating a supportive policy ecosystem is key to these developments. PM Modi highlighted three pillars driving India’s aviation success:

1. A vast and aspirational market that reflects the ambitions of a growing middle class.

   
   

2. A strong talent pool of young innovators excelling in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and clean energy.

   
   

3. An open policy environment that fosters innovation and elevates the industry to new heights.

Digital and Sustainable Innovations

India’s drive for digital transformation in aviation was also praised during the event. The Digi Yatra app, which enables paperless domestic travel, garnered special mention as a secure and efficient solution. Modi encouraged other nations to adopt similar technologies, describing Digi Yatra as a model of inspiration for the Global South.

India is also making strides in sustainable aviation. Efforts to develop green technologies, promote sustainable aviation fuels, and reduce the industry’s carbon footprint are part of the country’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility.

A Streamlined Regulatory Framework

The introduction of the New Indian Aircraft Act aligns the country’s aviation regulations with global best practices. This reform focuses on simplifying compliance, streamlining the regulatory framework, and creating significant investment opportunities for international players. These measures are designed to ensure that India remains an attractive destination for global aviation companies.

A Bright Horizon

As India’s aviation sector scales new heights, its achievements are setting benchmarks for the global industry. Modi emphasized that “India is more confident than ever before” and highlighted the nation’s emergence as a leader in the convergence of space and aviation technologies.

With a vision firmly rooted in innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability, India’s aviation story is not just about growth—it is about redefining what is possible in the skies and beyond.