Did India's Aviation Ministry Achieve Heights in 2023? Dive into the Highlights!

From enhancing regional connectivity to embracing cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, India's Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) soared to new heights in 2023. The sector witnessed transformative developments across various fronts, marking significant milestones and propelling the nation's aviation industry forward.

RCS-UDAN

The RCS-UDAN initiative, launched in 2016, continued its mission to connect underserved regions. In 2023 alone, the program saw remarkable expansion with 60 new routes, including operationalizing airports in Rourkela, Hollongi, Jamshedpur, and more. Notably, 154 additional routes were awarded under UDAN 4.2 & 5.0, with a focus on bolstering connectivity in North Eastern States.

Digi Yatra

The Digi Yatra project, leveraging Facial Recognition Technology (FRT), streamlined passenger processing across 13 airports. Over 91 lakh passengers embraced this contactless, paperless system, reinforcing its success and plans for future implementation at all airports.

Greenfield Airports

India's commitment to expanding aviation infrastructure was evident in the operationalization of 12 Greenfield airports, including Mopa, Shivammogga, and Rajkot. The 'in-principle' approval for 21 Greenfield Airports nationwide showcased the government's strategic vision for aviation expansion.

Tackling the acute shortage of Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs), MoCA approved the creation of 456 additional ATCO posts in April 2023, reinforcing the industry's workforce capabilities.

Flying Training Organizations (FTOs) witnessed strategic reforms, with 34 DGCA-approved FTOs operating across the country. Efforts were made to liberalize policies, leading to operational advancements and increased flying hours at institutions like IGRUA.

Drone Revolution

The Drone Rules, 2021, underwent substantial enhancements, making procedures online and simplifying certification. Notable amendments in 2023 further eased regulations, encouraging innovation and enhancing accessibility for drone enthusiasts and manufacturers.

A momentous achievement was observed on November 19, 2023, as domestic airlines recorded the highest single-day air traffic post-pandemic, marking a 7.4% surge over pre-COVID averages.

Expansion work at key airports, alongside the commitment to run 66 airports on 100% green energy, highlighted efforts toward sustainability. Additionally, measures were undertaken to address congestion at major airports, augmenting capacities and improving passenger touchpoints.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) played a pivotal role in upgrading airport infrastructure across various regions, inaugurating new terminal buildings and enhancing facilities at key airports like Chennai, Kanpur, Port Blair, and Tezu.

Strategic Agreements & International Connectivity

India's network of international flights and strategic agreements with countries such as Vietnam, Russia, and New Zealand paved the way for sustained international connectivity and collaborations.

The year 2023 witnessed promising expansions and collaborations in the aviation sector, setting the stage for continued growth, technological innovations, and sustainable practices.

Krishi Udan

The Krishi Udan Scheme 2.0, announced in 2021, gained momentum in 2023, aiming to transport perishable food products, especially from hilly areas, North-Eastern States, and tribal regions. The scheme encompassed 58 airports nationwide, offering waivers on landing and parking charges for Indian freighters at selected airports, incentivizing the movement of agricultural produce by air.

Sustainable Initiatives

Amidst these advancements, the industry marked a significant milestone with the highest single-day air traffic post-pandemic, showcasing a 7.4% surge over pre-COVID averages. Simultaneously, initiatives to run airports on 100% green energy and measures to mitigate congestion showcased India's commitment to sustainable aviation practices.

(Source: PIB)