Asia Pacific Civil Aviation Conference Begins in Delhi

Why in the News?

India hosts the second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation, highlighting its rapid aviation growth and initiatives like UDAN for enhanced regional connectivity.

Details about the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation Begins:

  • The second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation starts on 11th september at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
  • The event is co-hosted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation.
  • It will run for two days, focusing on aviation growth and innovation in the region.

Government Initiatives and Global Leadership

  • The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme has boosted regional connectivity, integrating remote areas into the aviation network.
  • India is playing a pivotal role in shaping global aviation trends by hosting the conference.
  • The country’s efforts place it at the forefront of aviation innovation and development in the Asia-Pacific region.

India’s Rapid Aviation Growth

  • India is the world’s fastest-growing aviation market and the third-largest in the domestic segment.
  • Over the past decade, the number of aircraft in India has doubled from 400 to over 800.

Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) – Key Facts

  • Established: 1978 under Directorate General of Civil Aviation(DGCA), independent since 1st April 1987.
  • Objective: Ensures civil aviation security per International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and national standards.
  • Head: Director General of Police rank, designated as Director General, BCAS.
  • Functions:
    • Issues licences and certificates to aviation personnel.
    • Enforces aviation rules per national and international standards.
    • Conducts audits, inspections, and investigations of aviation entities.
    • Represents India in global aviation bodies like ICAO and IATA.
    • Promotes aviation industry development and enhances public awareness.

Key facts about Second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation:

  • Venue: New Delhi
  • Participants: 38 countries, including Australia, New Zealand, India, China, Vietnam, Korea, and Japan.

Goals:

  • Enhance cooperation and coordination in the region.
  • Promote innovation and emphasise aviation safety.
  • Organisers: Indian government and International Civil Aviation Organization(ICAO).

Foundation:

  • First held in Beijing, resulting in the 2018 Beijing Declaration.

Aviation Potential:

  • Asia-Pacific accounts for 41% of global departures.
  • Passenger numbers are expected to grow from 4.5 billion in 2023 to 11.5 billion by 2050

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times