India’s aviation sector is undergoing a transformative phase, spearheaded by the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024, which officially came into force on January 1, 2025. Introduced by Civil Aviation Minister Sh. Ram Mohan Naidu and aligned with the government’s vision to remove colonial-era influences, this legislation replaces the Aircraft Act of 1934, modernizing India’s aviation landscape. The Act simplifies licensing, fosters indigenous manufacturing under Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, and aligns with international standards like ICAO and the Chicago Convention. It also enhances safety, regulatory efficiency, and ease of doing business, signaling India’s commitment to global aviation excellence.
Record-Breaking Passenger Traffic and Infrastructure Expansion
The year 2024 witnessed record domestic air passenger traffic, with over 146.4 million passengers traveling across 1.02 million flights, marking a 5.9% growth from 2023. International routes carried 64.5 million passengers, an 11.4% increase from the previous year. Airports in Aligarh, Azamgarh, Chitrakoot, Moradabad, and Shravasti were inaugurated in Uttar Pradesh, while new terminals are under construction in Varanasi, Agra, Darbhanga, and Bagdogra. The foundation for Greenfield Airports was strengthened, with 12 operationalized airports and two major projects, Noida (Jewar) and Navi Mumbai, set to launch in FY 2025-26.
Advancing Regional Connectivity Through RCS-UDAN
Celebrating its 8th anniversary, the RCS-UDAN scheme operationalized 619 routes and 88 airports, providing affordable air travel. In 2024 alone, 102 new routes, including 20 in the North East, were launched, emphasizing regional connectivity. Initiatives like UDAN Yatri Café and affordable airport eateries further align with the government’s vision to democratize air travel.
Sustainability and Green Energy Milestones
India’s airports are embracing sustainable practices, with 80 airports switching to 100% green energy. Bengaluru Airport achieved the prestigious Level 5 Carbon Accreditation from ACI, while Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad airports reached Level 4+ Carbon Neutrality.
Promoting Gender Equality in Aviation
A push for gender parity aims to increase women’s participation in aviation roles to 25% by 2025. The Civil Aviation Ministry launched mentorship programs and celebrated 51 women achievers in aviation, recognizing their contributions to the industry.
Expanding Digital and Operational Frontiers
The Digi Yatra initiative, now operational at 24 airports, has enabled over 4 crore contactless journeys, while new seaplane operation guidelines and tax reforms for MRO services streamline processes, reduce costs, and promote efficiency.
With significant advancements across safety, sustainability, and infrastructure, India’s aviation sector is poised for unprecedented growth and global leadership.
