Civil Aviation Secretary Vumlunmang Vualnam stated on Thursday that the fleet size of domestic airlines is projected to expand to 1,400 aircraft within the next five years, emphasising the immense growth potential of India’s aviation sector.
As of now, the fleet has 800 aircraft, with IndiGo and Air India placing significant orders.
Speaking at an event in the national capital, the Civil Aviation Secretary highlighted the growing opportunities for women in the aviation industry, particularly in the emerging drone sector. He also noted that the number of airports in India has more than doubled over the past decade, increasing from 74 to 157.
The secretary was addressing the ‘Giving Wings to Dreams Awards 2024,’ an event organised by the not-for-profit group Women in Aviation India in partnership with the civil aviation ministry.
He also said that the number of passengers has grown from 11 crore to around 22 crore.
He noted that the Rs 120-crore Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has been a success, with beneficiary companies achieving a significant increase in their overall turnover, which has grown to Rs 1,400 crore.
“New scheme for drones is required especially for component manufacturers. We will prepare and put up to the government but that is still at a preparation stage,” he noted.
(With PTI inputs)