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

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