From the Editor-in-Chief

Dear Reader,

This edition of BizAvIndia serves as a comprehensive lens into the nuanced developments and challenges shaping the Indian business aviation sector.

Harsh Vardhan Sharma, President of BAOA, points towards India’s trajectory to become the world’s third-largest economy, but despite significant growth in commercial airlines, the General/Business Aviation sector still grapples with substantial challenges, prompting the need for accelerated growth. Also, in his letter, Harsh Vardhan brings forth the role of BAOA in accelerating the industry’s growth. He adds that in line with the Ministry’s guidance, regular meetings with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will be conducted every four months to systematically address and streamline regulations pertaining to small aircraft operations.

Sanjay Julka, paints a vivid picture of the Golden Age of Indian Aviation, underlining a surge in demand fueled by first-time customers globally. However, concerns arise as supply struggles to meet demand, impeded by hesitant investor confidence and pending domestic and international investments. In his article, Julka advocates urgent reforms in infrastructure, regulations, and the fiscal environment to ensure the necessary momentum.

Jayant Nadkarni delves into the much-anticipated Fractional Aircraft Ownership in India, spotlighting the proven and popular global model that can potentially gain traction in the country. Picking on some important questions, he draws parallels with the perfected model in the US, emphasising its success as a business model for small aircraft in aviation globally. In another feature, Swaati Ketkar addresses the latent potential of helicopters in India, asserting their crucial role in the nation’s economic transformation. Despite challenges like outdated infrastructure and regulatory roadblocks, Ketkar sees a new wind rising as India evolves its health, social infrastructure, tourism, and transportation.

Taking flight with its 18th edition, the Dubai Airshow offered insights into the everevolving aerospace domain & served as a platform for strategic networking, showcasing cutting-edge aircraft, hosting knowledge-building conferences, and more. Business aviation also had an underlining presence at the Airshow as it has seen significant growth, more so in the Middle East. A show report by Ayushee Chaudhary highlights the BizAv scenario from the show. Features on the Gulfstream G500, a technological marvel enabling business and comfort at 51,000 feet, and Business Jets Sustainability Landmarks add further depth to this edition.

All this and more in this issue of BizAvIndia.

Welcome aboard and we wish you many happy landings!