India's Ambition in Aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO)
India is on a mission to become a global hub for aircraft MRO services, targeting a market worth $4 billion by 2030. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared this vision at the IATA's 81st annual general meeting in New Delhi.
Key Growth Strategies
- Expansion of MRO facilities from 96 in 2014 to 154 presently.
- 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under the automatic route.
- Reduced Goods and Services Tax (GST) and tax rationalization.
- Regulatory reforms aligning with global standards through the Indian Aircraft Act.
Aviation Sector Growth
- Passenger growth from 240 million to an expected 500 million annually by 2030.
- Increase in operational airports from 74 in 2014 to 162 currently.
UDAN Scheme
The Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme has made significant contributions to regional connectivity by:
- Facilitating affordable air travel for over 15 million passengers.
- Providing financial support through viability gap funding and tax concessions.
Technological and Environmental Initiatives
- Implementation of the Digi Yatra app for paperless travel.
- Commitment to green technologies and sustainable aviation fuels.
- Emphasis on innovation in manufacturing and design with "Design in India" alongside "Make in India".
Gender Diversity and Future Prospects
- Women make up 15% of pilots in India, three times the global average, and 86% of cabin crew.
- Drones empowering women's self-help groups in sectors like agriculture and logistics.
- Exploration of interplanetary travel as a future frontier.
Aviation Safety
India prioritizes aviation safety, with international recognition from the International Civil Aviation Organization for strengthening aviation security.
