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Dubai-based consulting firm to conduct aviation study

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Press Trust of India New Delhi
Last Updated : Jun 22 2015 | 7:32 PM IST
Business Aircraft Operators' Association (BAOA) has mandated Dubai-based Martin Consulting to conduct a comprehensive study of the business and general aviation segment including its growth potential, infrastructure requirements and challenges.
The study would map the real dynamics of the segment, identify challenges that are affecting its growth while bringing out a list of immediate imperatives and long-term recommendations in order to give a fillip to its needs, according to a BAOA official.
Earlier, International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) had carried out a detailed study by employing its experts, with Indian counterparts, to prepare report on 'Roadmap of General Aviation, Helicopter and Seaplane Services in India'.
"The report was finalised and approved by ICAO headquarters in April 2012 for consideration by Indian authorities, but that is gathering dust in the files," the official alleged.
"BAOA has made several attempts to highlight a stifling environment countermanding the growth of the industry over the past years. However, it does not seem to have had any significant impact on the policy makers. As a recourse, BAOA has commissioned this comprehensive study on the sector to showcase its potential, value and contributions," the official said.
Pointing out that general and business aviation cumulatively hold three times the fleet of commercial airliners in India, the official said, the segment has "failed" to garner due diligence within the eyes of government and regulators who see it as a luxury segment, not realising the ways it actually contributes to economy, enables connectivity, industrial works, medical evacuations, tourism etc.
The segment suffers a major perception problem leading to apathy that has resulted in non-existence of separate policy framework, punitive taxations and lack of infrastructural support, the official claimed.
The industry has emerged as an essential part of national transportation systems around the world, the association said, adding, it is especially critical for connectivity and for businesses that need to move efficiently in growing economies like India.
The report, which is expected to be presented to the association by the fourth quarter of the calendar year, would also present necessary market forecast, fleet requirements, infrastructure gaps, revenue contributions and a roadmap of the sector over the next 10 years, the official added.

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First Published: Jun 22 2015 | 7:32 PM IST

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