Private aviation prepares for long-term growth in India. Dassault Falcon expresses confidence as conditions for the industry develop.

The development and health of business aviation correlates strongly with the economic development of a country, but it also plays a role in driving higher business activity and competitive performance. In India, private aviation is poised to expand significantly as the economy continues to prosper.

Our vision for the Indian business aviation market over the long term—15 to 20 years—is very positive based on a number of fundamentals being put in place. India’s economy is growing at a very high rate planting seeds for a fast rise in high net worth individuals and sustained profits for corporations. As companies invest and expand, it is natural to find them using the most efficient and competitive way to travel—business jets. We have already seen significant business aviation activity in India and increased investment in the vital infrastructure necessary to support safe and reliable operation of business. Dassault, for instance, already has two offices in the country, with technical representatives and marketing activities, authorised service centres and a spares depot.

It is important that the fledgling private aviation industry in India organise itself and so we warmly welcome the formation of the Business Aircraft Operators Association (BAOA). The BAOA will be a strong advocate for further growth of the sector and will highlight the needs of its operators. It will help set high standards of safety, efficiency and professionalism, through the close cooperation of all its members.

Another important factor is the support of the government through the modernisation of airports, and the easing of regulations to encourage business aviation and private aircraft ownership and operations.

We can already see the positive impact of these activities in India. In the 1990s, there were only a handful of large cabin aircraft registered in the country. In 2010, India saw its largest rise in new aircraft registrations. Dassault Falcon currently has more than a 60 per cent share of the market for premium large cabin/long haul business aircraft and we expect the fleet to double in the next few years. Falcon aircraft are especially valued in India for their performance and their efficiency. They offer economical operation and environmentally responsible performance.

A vibrant business aviation sector is vital for the development of India’s broader economy, to create access to more remote areas of the country in comfort and security. Dassault is playing its role with a long-term commitment to building our presence in the country, through new services and strong customer support. In a country which could offer the potential for 100 Falcon aircraft sales over the next 15 years, there is clear justification in our confidence and in committing the company to further expansion in India.