Committed to build safer, robust future for air travel in India: Officials
New Delhi, Dec 20
India stands proudly as the world's third-largest domestic civil aviation market and its fleet strength has more than doubled, expanding from 395 aircraft in 2014 to 844 by 2025, underscoring the extraordinary momentum of the sector, according to Samir Kumar Sinha, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation.
Over the past decade, passenger traffic within the country has grown at an impressive average rate of 9 per cent annually, while cargo volumes have risen by 2.9 per cent, said Sinha.
"The year 2025 has been a period of learning and transformation for Indian civil aviation. While challenges have tested our resilience, they have also strengthened our resolve to enhance safety, efficiency, and public confidence. These experiences have united the aviation community with renewed determination to build a safer and more robust future for air travel in India," he mentioned.
He was speaking at a seminar hosted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The theme brought together senior government officials from MoCA, DGCA, industry leaders along-with aviation professionals from across India's civil aviation ecosystem.
Sinha underscored that "safety is not a fixed destination but an ongoing journey -- demanding vigilance, compliance, and accountability."
Through examples, he illustrated critical safety concerns, which resonated strongly with the audience and reinforced the collective responsibility of maintaining a secure aviation environment.
"Another area which needs to be highlighted and is part of the deliberations today, is operational risk that is introduced by maintenance errors. They induce mechanical faults and system failures," he noted.
Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, Director General, DGCA, reaffirmed the regulator's commitment to proactive safety oversight and global alignment.
He outlined key initiatives including the implementation of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024, State Safety Programme and the National Aviation Safety Plan (2024-2028).
The event featured three technical sessions addressing safety challenges namely Runway Incursion, Positive Safety Culture in Aviation and Maintenance Error.
Each session brought together experts from both regulatory and industry domains to discuss root causes, share best practices and proposed mitigation strategies.
The emphasis was placed on the importance of a proactive, risk-based approach to safety management, supported by continuous learning and cross-sector collaboration.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Safety is an ongoing journey - absolutely correct. With so many new airlines and routes, rigorous checks are non-negotiable. Glad they are focusing on maintenance errors. A single oversight can be catastrophic. Jai Hind to our aviation sector!
Impressive numbers, no doubt. But as a frequent flyer, I've noticed ground staff and ATC are often overstretched. Growth is good, but we must invest in human resources and training equally. The new safety plan must include workforce well-being.
The focus on runway incursion is critical. I travel often between Delhi and Bangalore, and sometimes the taxiing feels chaotic. A proactive, risk-based approach is exactly what's needed. Hope these discussions lead to tangible changes on the tarmac.
Good to see the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam being implemented. Aligning with global standards while making our own laws is the way forward. The sector's growth is a big economic driver. Let's make it the safest too.
My brother is an aircraft maintenance engineer. He says the pressure is immense with more planes and tight schedules. The seminar's focus on 'Positive Safety Culture' is spot on. It starts from the top management - they must prioritize safety over profits. A respectful but necessary criticism.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.