India Emerges as Global Leader in Space-Aviation Convergence: PM Modi At IATA’s 81st AGM 

New Delhi, June 2, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s growing leadership in the global aviation sector during his address at the 81st Annual General Meeting of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. He highlighted how India has not only become one of the largest aviation markets but is also a symbol of innovation, policy leadership, and inclusive development.

India Emerging as Global Leader in Space-Aviation Integration

PM Modi opened his address by noting that India is increasingly seen as a global leader in the space and aviation convergence, thanks to its technological advancements and policy initiatives. He stressed that India’s aviation growth is being fueled by robust market demand, innovation, and government support.

Three Pillars Driving India’s Aviation Sector

The Prime Minister outlined three foundational pillars that are propelling India’s aviation success:

1. A vast and aspirational market, driven by a rising middle class.
2. A strong demographic and talent pool, with youth driving innovation in AI, robotics, and clean energy.
3. An open and supportive policy ecosystem, which fosters industrial growth and private sector participation.

India Becomes World’s Third-Largest Domestic Aviation Market

Highlighting the growth trajectory of civil aviation in India, PM Modi shared that the country has become the third-largest domestic aviation market. He noted that passenger traffic has surged to 240 million annually, surpassing the population of most countries, and is projected to reach 500 million by 2030.

UDAN Scheme a Game-Changer for Affordable Travel

The Prime Minister praised the success of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, calling it a “golden chapter in Indian aviation history.” Over 15 million passengers have benefitted from affordable air travel under the initiative, helping connect remote regions and boost regional air connectivity.

Air Cargo Volumes Set to Triple by 2030

India currently transports 3.5 million metric tons of cargo annually by air. This is expected to increase to 10 million metric tons by the end of the decade. PM Modi confirmed that the government is working on a futuristic roadmap to fully realize this potential.

Digi Yatra App Promotes Seamless and Secure Travel

Urging global stakeholders to adopt the Digi Yatra app, PM Modi emphasized its role in providing seamless travel through facial verification technology. He called it a secure and efficient model, ideal for replication across the Global South.

Reforms and Legislation Strengthen Aviation Ecosystem

The Prime Minister also mentioned the Mission Manufacturing initiative from this year’s budget, aimed at boosting domestic production. He highlighted the Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill, which gives legal recognition to the Cape Town Convention, strengthening India’s legal framework for aviation leasing and financing.

Aviation Growth Creating Jobs and New Opportunities

As the sector grows, it is also creating new employment opportunities for pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and ground staff. PM Modi identified the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) industry as a sunrise sector, with India aiming to become a global hub for aircraft maintenance. The number of MRO facilities has increased from 96 in 2014 to 154 in 2025.

Civil Aviation Minister Announces Plans for 50 New Airports

Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu reiterated the government’s commitment to developing aviation infrastructure. He announced plans to build 50 new airports in the next five years. Since 2014, the number of airports in India has grown from 74 to 162, including 33 international airports.

India’s Domestic Aviation Growth Outpaces Global Average

Mr. Naidu highlighted that as of April 2025, India’s domestic air traffic has grown by 10%, outpacing the global average of 8%. He credited the UDAN scheme for making regional air travel accessible and affordable.

Global Aviation Leaders Gather for IATA Annual General Meeting

The IATA AGM, hosted in India after 42 years, serves as a major platform to discuss global aviation challenges and opportunities. The World Air Transport Summit, running alongside the AGM, will address issues such as:

• Airline economics
• Air connectivity
• Sustainable aviation fuel
• Decarbonization finance
• Aviation innovation and technology

Leaders from across the world will witness India’s transformative aviation journey and its significant contribution to socio-economic development.

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