India Host 2nd Asia-Pacific Aviation Conference: A Milestone

India hosted the 2nd Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation on September 11-12, 2024, in New Delhi. The conference, co-hosted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Conference Overview and Significance

2nd Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation held on September 11-12, 2024
Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India
Co-hosted by International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and Ministry of Civil Aviation, India
First conference held in Beijing, China, in 2018
India volunteered to host in 2020 but postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic
Coincides with 80th anniversary of ICAO & Chicago Convention
Aims to address immediate challenges and long-term growth prospects for Asia-Pacific aviation
Expected to result in 'Delhi Declaration' on air safety, security, and sustainability

India's Role and Vision in Aviation Sector

India is the third-largest domestic aviation market globally
Positioning itself as a major hub for Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services
Focus on cargo operations and regional aviation growth
Development of new greenfield airports
Implementation of progressive policies like UDAN for regional air connectivity
Aiming to become a pivotal player in the region's aviation ecosystem
Showcasing India's innovation through drone shows and cultural programs
Demonstrating commitment to "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (The world is one family) spirit

Asia-Pacific Aviation Market and Challenges

Asia-Pacific region home to some of the fastest-growing aviation markets
Expected to account for over 40% of global air traffic by 2035
Projected 3.5 billion passengers traveling annually by 2035

Key challenges addressed:

- Infrastructure development
- Market gaps
- Sustainability concerns
- Workforce shortages
Focus on airspace optimization, cybersecurity, and net-zero carbon emissions
Aim to foster greater cooperation between public and private sectors
Emphasis on collaboration among airlines, regulatory bodies, and industry experts

Participation and International Cooperation

Around 250 representatives from 29 countries participating
Notable participating countries: Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Vietnam
Absence of representatives from Pakistan noted

Presence of key aviation organizations:

- Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA)
- Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO)
- Airports Council International (ACI)
- International Air Transport Association (IATA)
- European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC)
- European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)
- Transport Security Administration (TSA)
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
- African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC)
Participation of ICAO Council Representatives from various countries
Attendance of Director Generals & Deputy Director Generals from multiple Civil Aviation Authorities

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