What is in store for India's commercial aviation market?

2024 has been a difficult year for Aviation. A significant concern has been the persistent disruptions in the supply chain that are impacting aircraft manufacturers and their suppliers. Consequently, airlines have been compelled to either postpone their expansion plans or depend on older fleets, which are less fuel-efficient and entail higher maintenance costs.

- AMEYA JOSHI

The global commercial aviation industry has experienced a significant transformation over the past few years, with 2024 serving as a pivotal year of recovery and growth. After grappling with the disruptive impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which grounded fleets and reduced passenger numbers to historic lows, the industry has emerged stronger, albeit with challenges that continue to shape its trajectory. As we look back at 2024 and ahead to 2025, it is clear that the commercial aviation market is at the nexus of innovation, sustainability, and evolving consumer demands.

By 2023, the impact of COVID was over and in 2024, one of the defining characteristics of the commercial aviation industry, was the robust recovery in passenger traffic. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that global passenger numbers were expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels, driven by pent-up demand for travel, relaxed travel restrictions, and increased consumer confidence. Both domestic and international travel markets have seen significant growth, with regions such as Asia-Pacific leading the way in terms of recovery. In particular, the reopening of China's borders and its resurgence as a key travel market have provided a significant boost to the global aviation industry. India, on the other hand, crossed the provided numbers on the domestic services in 2023.