Boeing And India: A History And Future Of Partnership

Long-term collaborations showcase Boeing’s commitment to India’s growth and Aatmanirbharta in aerospace and defence.

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The Indian economy has achieved a remarkable growth over the past three decades. Accounting for 90 percent of South Asia’s total economic output, it was among the world-leading growth economies in the years before the pandemic. Over the past year, even while recovering from the impact of COVID-19, India’s gross domestic product grew by almost 7 percent to make it the fifth-largest economy in the world. According to the International Monetary Fund’s 2023 World Economic Outlook, the country’s economy is projected to grow at a 5.6 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) through 2041.

India’s booming aerospace industry, particularly civil aviation, has been a significant factor in this success. As the world’s third-largest civil aviation market, India’s fleet is set to nearly quadruple in size by 2041 compared to 2019. The country is also projected to receive over 90 percent of South Asia’s airplane deliveries, requiring about 2,400 new aircraft, while its cargo market is set to expand significantly, with the fleet growing from 15 to 80 airplanes by 2042, driving a $135 billion demand for commercial services.

ENDURING FRIENDSHIP

As a company with over eight decades in India, Boeing has long supported the development of the country’s aerospace and defence capabilities. The relationship began with delivery of a T-6 Texan and a C-47 Skytrain to the Indian Air Force in the 1940s. It has expanded to today’s range of active Boeing platforms including passenger airplanes, C-17 airlifters, AH-64 attack helicopters, CH-47 multimission rotorcraft, P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, and VIP transports.