The Indian capital turned into the epicenter of global aviation this week as the 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the World Air Transport Summit took place from May 31 to June 2, 2025, at the Taj Palace Hotel, New Delhi.
The event brought together over 300 of the world’s most influential aviation leaders, including airline CEOs, government ministers, policy-makers, regulators, and aviation analysts—all under one roof to chart the future of global air travel.
This is only the third time India has hosted the IATA AGM, and the timing couldn’t have been more symbolic. With India poised to become the third-largest aviation market globally, the choice of New Delhi as host city signals the industry’s growing confidence in India’s role in shaping the next phase of aviation growth.
“India is no longer just a market for aviation—it is a force of innovation and resilience,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, during his opening remarks. “New Delhi hosting the AGM speaks volumes about the country’s emergence as a key global aviation hub.”
Focus on Sustainability, Connectivity, and Innovation
From climate change to air traffic modernization, the agenda was packed with high-stakes discussions. Top airline heads from Emirates, Air India, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Delta, and more, engaged in panels and closed-door meetings to address shared challenges.
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), carbon reduction targets, and AI-led efficiencies took center stage, while ongoing global tensions, fuel price volatility, and supply chain constraints were also hot topics.
Delivering the keynote address, Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia welcomed the delegates with optimism and ambition.
“India’s aviation story is just beginning. From expanding regional connectivity under UDAN to embracing clean aviation technologies, our aim is to transform India into a global aviation powerhouse,” said Scindia. “The world is watching—and we are ready to lead.”
A Landmark Gathering for a Shifting Industry
The AGM also marked the release of IATA’s Global Aviation Outlook, which forecasts Asia-Pacific leading global passenger growth over the next decade, with India and Southeast Asia at the forefront.
The tone of the summit was not just about competition—but collaboration. Attendees agreed that the future of aviation will be defined by how well the industry unites across borders, embraces sustainability, and adopts next-generation technologies.
A Defining Moment for India
For India, the event was more than a gathering—it was a global stage to showcase its rising influence and hospitality.
As the final day approaches, there’s a quiet but growing consensus: this AGM will be remembered as a turning point, not just for IATA, but for India’s place in the skies of the future.
