Delhi Named Venue For Global Aviation Showcase In 2025

EE News Desk Jun 06, 2024

Pieter Elbers, CEO, IndiGo and Chair of IATA's board of governors, will host the AGM

As per media reports, demonstrating faith in India's rising prominence in global aviation, New Delhi will host the 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) next year.

This marks the return of the event to Delhi, previously hosted in 1956 and 1983. Pieter Elbers, CEO, IndiGo and Chair of IATA's board of governors, will host the AGM.

Elbeirs mentioned in a statement, “It is indeed an honour to assume this role at a time when India is emerging as one of the world's largest and fastest growing civil aviation markets and evolving into a formidable force in the airline industry. Adhering to IATA’s legacy of aviation as a force for good, we will continue in our focus of highlighting the benefits of aviation in building connections, augmenting trade, tourism and mobility—benefits also visible in India.”

India, currently the third-largest domestic aviation market by volume, is anticipated to become the third-largest overall market by 2026, as per IATA projections. Post-COVID, India's domestic aviation sector has experienced the swiftest recovery globally.

Willie Walsh, Director General, IATA expressed optimism regarding opportunities in the Indian aviation industry, stressing that government policies can unleash the country's potential.

Walsh highlighted India's share in the global aviation market, noting its growth from 0.4 per cent in 2000 to 1.8 per cent currently. “When you look at the Chinese market which is 12 per cent of global aviation, it signifies the potential that can be unlocked in India and it can only be done if the right policies of the government are in place.”

According to Jyotiraditya Scindia, Civil Aviation Minister, the aviation sector has experienced significant growth, marked by record passenger numbers, the establishment of top-tier infrastructure, improved regional connectivity, and notable aircraft orders.

He wrote on X, “I am certain that this will provide national and international stakeholders a platform to further explore the Indian aviation market and open new avenues for collaboration and sustainability.”