In a recent statement, Willie Walsh, the Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), described India as a “fascinating market” and a top destination. He made reference to the more than 1,000 aircraft that local carriers like Air India and IndiGo have ordered, saying, “I think somebody with an ambition to be a pilot should be looking at India because of the aircraft orders.”
India’s aviation industry is one of the fastest-growing in the world, driven by ambitious expansions and substantial investments in wide-body aircraft, such as the A350s and 787s. “India is going to see significant growth in the domestic market. Those ambitions are founded on realistic expectations,” Walsh remarked.
India’s expanding fleet creates ample career opportunities for pilots. Walsh noted, “India doesn’t have an issue when it comes to pilots. I think somebody with an ambition to be a pilot should be looking at India.” The market is also attracting Indian pilots working abroad, who may return home to take advantage of the growing demand.
Additionally, the introduction of wide-body aircraft offers new career progression opportunities. “Pilots have seen career progression opportunities from narrow body to wide body that didn’t exist,” Walsh added.
India’s government is investing heavily in airport infrastructure to support the sector’s growth. Beyond connectivity, Walsh pointed to related industries, saying, “There’s quite a lot of interest in developing maintenance and repair facilities in India.”
On airport charges, he acknowledged improvements in regulations, noting, “The regulator is more open to listening to the voices of airlines and the airline industry… I believe that is changing.”
With 26,539 certified pilots and more than 11,775 pilots working for major airlines, India’s aviation industry is flourishing. The advancement of diversity is demonstrated by the fact that women currently comprise up 15% of the pilot workforce.
Summing up, Walsh said, “India is going to be a fascinating market, it is going to be really exciting.” With a growing fleet, career opportunities, and supportive policies, India’s aviation industry offers a promising future for aspiring pilots and aviation professionals alike.
Source: Economic Times
Follow Aviation Today for latest updates and news
