If there is any one defining symbol that shows India is on the move, it is in the aviation sector. After decades of socialist pampering where national carriers enjoyed a monopoly, the current scenario is a revolution.
Today, millions of Indians can pick their flight, time of departure, even the choice of fares. Competition, thanks to the entry of private operators, has been a huge bonus for those traveling on business or pleasure. The advent of budget carries has brought air travel within the grasp of the middle class. Tickets on low –coast carries or the range of special fares offered by major players are almost at par with upper-class rail fares. With more private airlines waiting to launch, flights could become even cheaper. The aviation boom is supersonic. Domestic airlines sold 16 million seats last year and are operating 6oo flights a day. Air traffic is growing at 20 percent annually and is set to grow even faster.
That is great news for the sector and consumers but as always, there is a downside, Poor planning and short-sightedness have ensured that infrastructure has not kept pace with growth. Most Indian airports are not equipped to handle the expansion. Singapore’s Changi airport handles 3,200 flights a day compared to 600 across India. The turn-around time at Indian airports is 1.4 hours as opposed to international average of 0.75 hours. The entry of new airlines has led to a critical shortage of pilots, engineers and parking slot while there are other infrastructural bottlenecks urgently in need of long –term solutions.
On a positive note, the current aviation minister, a businessman himself, is aware of the handicaps and plans are in place to upgrade facilities and airport services. Right now, however, India’s aviation boom is definitely a boon.
Indians are enjoying the triple treat of affordability, availability and connectivity. Despite the hurdles, the aviation sector, like IT and telecom is poised to change the face of India. A better connected and more mobile one means a healthier economy.
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