Expo-Wings India
Context:
Expo-Wings India 2024 was inaugurated in Hyderabad.
Relevance:
GS-03 (Security)
About Expo-Wings India 2024:
- It stands out as a prominent global aviation summit, recognized as the largest event in the aviation sector across Asia.
- The theme for Wings India 2024 is “Connecting India to the World in Amrit Kaal: Setting the Stage for India Civil Aviation @2047.”
- With participation from 106 countries, approximately 1500 delegates actively took part in the expo.
- The inaugural session witnessed the launch of UDAN 5.3.
- The event encompasses various activities such as conferences, meetings, networking dinners, and exhibitions, facilitating the involvement of stakeholders from the global aviation community.
- India presently holds the position of the world’s third-largest civil aviation market and continues to be one of the fastest-growing in the sector.
Aviation Industry Overview in India:
- The aviation industry in India constitutes a comprehensive sector that includes various facets of civil aviation operations within the nation.
- It encompasses elements such as airlines, airports, aircraft manufacturing, aviation services, and regulatory authorities.
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The aviation sector plays a crucial role in delivering substantial economic and social advantages by promoting tourism, trade, connectivity, fostering economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and serving as a vital link for remote communities.
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It also ensures a swift response during unforeseen circumstances.
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In India, the aviation industry embodies the principles of Accessibility, Availability, and Affordability, signifying its commitment to providing widespread access, consistent service, and cost-effective travel options.
Challenges in the Indian Aviation Industry:
Infrastructure Limitations:
- Major airports, such as Mumbai and Delhi, grapple with severe congestion, leading to delays and operational inefficiencies.
- While major cities have robust connectivity, smaller towns and regions often lack adequate airport infrastructure and air links.
High Operating Costs:
- Elevated taxes on aviation turbine fuel (ATF) and airport charges contribute to increased operational expenses.
- Some states impose up to 30% taxes on jet fuel, making shorter flight routes financially unviable for smaller airlines.
Pilot Shortages:
- Recruitment and retention challenges for experienced pilots result in disruptions and increased labor costs.
- The substantial surge in aircraft orders necessitates a significant number of flight crew members, with pilot training costs in India averaging nearly ₹1 crore.
Security Concerns:
- Beyond conventional threats like terrorism and hijacking, cybersecurity risks to aviation infrastructure are rising, potentially disrupting operations and jeopardizing passenger data.
Other Challenges:
- Management of medical standards by Indian Air Force doctors has led to the grounding of numerous civilian pilots.
- Operating flying training centers faces challenges, aggravated by corruption among officials enforcing pre-Independence regulations.
Government Initiatives:
- Reduction of GST rate from 18% to 5% for domestic Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services.
- Launch of RCS-UDAN to boost air connectivity to unserved and underserved airports in Tier-II and Tier-III cities, fostering regional growth and affordable air travel.
