Delhi Declaration on Civil Aviation Passed

Context

The Prime Minister has announced the adoption of the Delhi Declaration on Civil Aviation. 

About

• The Declaration was followed unanimously after the second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference in New Delhi.
• The Declaration is a complete framework aimed at improving regional cooperation, addressing emerging challenges and fostering sustainable growth in the civil aviation sector in the Asia-Pacific region. 
• The Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference additionally celebrates 80 years of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Key Announcements

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised India’s advancements in aviation, highlighting that 15% of Indian pilots are women, well above the global common.
• Proposal for an International Buddhist Circuit to decorate regional tourism and connectivity.
• India targets to set up 350-400 airports by 2047, increasing its global aviation footprint.
• The status quo of a Pacific Small Island Developing States Liaison Office to assist smaller nations in coping with aviation challenges.
• Initiatives like the ‘Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam’ marketing campaign to plant 80,000 saplings in commemoration of ICAO’s 80 years. Focus on inexperienced aviation and sustainability in future plans.

Significance of the Delhi Declaration

• It represents a prime step closer to strengthening regional cooperation in civil aviation in the Asia-Pacific, a location experiencing rapid aviation increase.
• The framework addresses sustainability, inexperienced aviation, and safety—essential challenges within the aviation enterprise today.
• Initiatives just like the International Buddhist Circuit align with broader regional desires of enhancing connectivity and boosting tourism and monetary prosperity across Asia.
• India is positioning itself as a frontrunner in global aviation, with its formidable targets of constructing 350-400 airports through 2047, making it a key participant in aviation infrastructure development.

Civil Aviation Sector in India

• India is the third-biggest domestic aviation market globally, and it is predicted to become the third-largest universal by 2025.
• India’s civil aviation region is increasing via key government initiatives just like the UDAN Scheme, Pradhan Mantri Gati Shakti Plan, and NCAP 2016. 
• With 136 operational airports and plans for 100 more, the government specializes in modernizing infrastructure, enhancing regional connectivity, and inspiring PPP fashions for airport development.

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

• Established: 1947, via the Chicago Convention (1944).
• Headquarters: Montreal, Canada.
• Functions:

1. 1. Ensures safe and efficient international air transport.
   2. Sets standards for aviation safety, security, and environmental overall performance.
   3. Promotes regional and global agreements to liberalize aviation markets.
   4. Facilitates cooperation and discussions amongst its 193 member states.
   5. Develops legal frameworks for aviation law and standards.

Source: The News on AIR