India is set to host the 2nd Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation, marking a key event for the region’s aviation sector. Scheduled to take place from September 11-12, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, the conference is co-hosted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India.
Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, spoke at a press conference at Rajeev Gandhi Bhawan, New Delhi, sharing details about the event. “This conference comes at a pivotal time when India’s aviation industry is experiencing a transformation,” Naidu said. He pointed out that as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally, India is positioning itself as a major hub for Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services, cargo operations, and regional aviation.
Naidu further mentioned ongoing developments in new greenfield airports and progressive policies, such as the UDAN initiative, which promotes regional air connectivity. These efforts are driving India towards sustained growth in the aviation sector.
This will be the second edition of the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference, with the first one having taken place in 2018 in Beijing, China. Although India was slated to host the event in 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic delayed the conference until 2024.
“We are proud to lead initiatives that are transforming air travel in the Asia-Pacific region. Our vision extends beyond the growth of Indian civil aviation; it is about contributing to the region’s aviation ecosystem,” Naidu added.
The Minister also underscored the significance of the Asia-Pacific region, home to some of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally. By 2035, the region is projected to account for over 40% of global air traffic, with nearly 3.5 billion passengers annually.
Naidu said that the conference will focus on unlocking the potential for growth, building partnerships, and addressing challenges such as infrastructure development, market gaps, sustainability, and workforce shortages. The event will feature symposiums and seminars on key topics including Airspace Optimization, Cybersecurity, and Net Zero Carbon Emissions. Additionally, drone shows and cultural programs will highlight India’s technological advancements and rich cultural heritage, reflecting the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”
The conference will also commemorate the 80th anniversary of the ICAO and Chicago Convention, reaffirming India’s role in global aviation. Naidu expressed optimism that the event will foster new partnerships and lead to the adoption of the ‘Delhi Declaration,’ a roadmap for advancing civil aviation in the region with commitments to air safety, navigation, security, and sustainability.