New Indian Aircraft Act 2024 Takes Flight: A Landmark Reform in Aviation Sector

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New Indian Aircraft Act 2024 Takes Flight

Key Highlights

  • New Era Begins: The Indian Aircraft Act, 2024, replaces the 90-year-old Aircraft Act from January 1, 2025.
  • Boost to ‘Make in India’: Aims to strengthen aircraft design and manufacturing in India.
  • Affordable Air Travel: Regulated ticket pricing expected to benefit travelers.
  • Expansion Goals: Plans to increase airports from 157 to 300-400 by 2047.
  • Record Passenger Traffic: India now ranks third in the global domestic airline market, with over 4.56 lakh passengers traveling on a single day in November 2024.

New Delhi: In a significant step toward revolutionizing India’s aviation sector, the Indian Aircraft Act, 2024 officially comes into effect today, January 1, 2025. This landmark legislation, approved by Parliament in December 2024, modernizes a 90-year-old law that has been amended 21 times since its inception. The move is expected to catalyze innovation in aircraft design and manufacturing while improving the ease of doing business in aviation.

The new law paves the way for enhanced regulation across critical areas, including the design, manufacture, maintenance, operation, and trade of aircraft. A government notification dated December 31, 2024, confirmed the commencement of this Act, signaling a fresh chapter for the fast-growing aviation industry.

A Step Toward Self-Reliance and Global Competitiveness

The Act aligns with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, ensuring that India becomes a hub for aircraft manufacturing. During the parliamentary debate, ruling party members emphasized the need to replace outdated laws with forward-thinking policies to eliminate the “colonial mindset.” They also refuted opposition claims of language imposition in the Act’s nomenclature.

Impact on Air Travel and Market Growth

The legislation introduces provisions to regulate airline pricing, potentially leading to more affordable air travel. This development comes as India has already established itself as the third-largest domestic airline market globally. On November 19, 2024, the country witnessed record domestic passenger traffic, with over 4.56 lakh individuals taking to the skies.

Infrastructure Expansion: Setting Ambitious Goals

India’s aviation infrastructure has seen remarkable growth over the past decade. From 74 airports in 2014, the number has more than doubled to 157 in 2024, with plans to expand further to 300-400 airports by 2047. This expansion is expected to accommodate the rising demand for air travel, fueled by the growing aspirations of Indian travelers.

Historical Context and Relevance

The earlier Aircraft Act, introduced in 1934, was deemed insufficient for modern aviation needs. The Indian Aircraft Act, 2024, reflects a contemporary approach, incorporating comprehensive regulations that address current challenges and opportunities in the aviation sector.

New Indian Aircraft Act 2024 Takes Flight

A Future-Ready Framework

This new legislation is a significant milestone in India’s journey toward self-reliance and global competitiveness in aviation. By fostering innovation, improving regulatory frameworks, and enabling affordable air travel, the Indian Aircraft Act, 2024, promises to reshape the future of the Indian skies.

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