From the Editor-in-Chief

Dear Readers,

It is about time the debate on the utility of business aviation and its contribution to national economy comes to an end! Since 2009, NBAA and GAMA have been promoting an advocacy campaign “No Plane, No Gain” which very soon went beyond the shores of US as the appeal of it was universal, whether in Asia or in Middle East or Latin America. Repeated studies over the years have confirmed that contributions of business aviation to a nation’s employment, commerce, competitiveness and health are profound. Also, businesses need all possible tools that will help them enhance productivity, maximise flexibility and maintain strong communications. This is further reinforced by the latest NEXA study on the relation of the use of business aircraft to the performance of the companies they serve. The study concludes that business aviation delivers extraordinary value for America’s top performing companies and contributes across the board, in both financial and non-financial measures.

Even in India, where business aviation/general aviation was always considered to be rich people toys, things seem to be changing for the better with the Government recognising the possible benefits of BA/GA. This change in the thinking of the mandarins was clearly illustrated on December 12, 2017, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi flew in a seaplane from Sabarmati river in Ahmedabad to Dharoi Dam in Mehsana district in Gujarat. This flight by the Prime Minister was projected as a part of the development agenda of the government and will surely give a fresh impetus to the RCS. Use of seaplanes can open up a new segment and enhance connectivity across the nation and boost economic growth. We have detailed reports on all of these in this issue of the magazine.

Unfortunately, while it is two steps forward for GA/BA in India, it is one-step backward. Private aircraft remain on the list of “Sin Goods” in the revised list for GST and attract the highest level of 28 per cent GST on them. As Rohit Kapur, President, BAOA points out in his message, private jets are used by companies for the safe and efficient travel of their senior management, to destinations which are not covered effectively by scheduled airlines and it allows them to access remote areas for furtherance of their business, which they would never be able to do otherwise.

Similarly, we have in this issue Group Captain R.K. Bali (Retd), Managing Director, BAOA, welcoming Delhi International Airport Limited announcement to construct a dedicated terminal for non-scheduled operators and small aircrafts as part of their capacity expansion plan but emphasizing that the regulatory framework has to change to support the growth. There is a lot more in this issue of BizAvIndia to keep you engaged. Also, we at SP’s wish the entire BA/GA community “Happy Holidays” and look forward to interacting with you again in the New Year.

Have safe take offs and landings!

J. Baranwal
Editor-in-Chief