India set to become third largest aviation market in world : Naidu

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : Vice President of India M Venkaiah Naidu on November 2, 2017, said that India is witnessing a high-growth trajectory and set to become the third largest aviation market in the world in terms of passengers by 2026. He was addressing a gathering after inaugurating the 2^nd Aero Expo India 2017, here. e Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ashok Gajapathi Raju Pusapati, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

The Vice President said that the aviation sector not only plays a key role in promoting connectivity and creating jobs but is also an important driver of the economy. He said that the aviation is the backbone of the global transport system. It indeed is the most vital sector for linking businesses, bringing people together and promoting tourism worldwide, he added, according to a PIB release.

The Vice President said that India became the world’s fastest growing domestic travel market for the 22nd time in a row recording a 26.6 % year-on-year growth in January 2017, according to IATA. He said that while there is a downward trend in accidents, there can’t be any complacency and safety will have to remain the topmost priority of aviation authorities and experts.

Naidu expressed his happiness on UDAN scheme seeking to promote regional connectivity by serving the un-served and under-served airports. Connecting Tier-II cities, pilgrim towns and historic places with the wider air routes is important for boosting tourism and business travel, he added.