Global airlines highlights calls for growth, safety and sustainability at IATA 81st AGM

After a gap of 42 years, New Delhi hosted the 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) from 1st-3rd June 2025. The host Airline was IndiGo and the Prime Minister Narendra Modi also addressed the global aviation delegate on with a keynote address. Aviation World Exclusive.

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) took place at the Bharat Mandapam - Convention Centre in New Delhi, India and hosted by IndiGo. The mega aviation event in Delhi gathered the top leadership from airlines, the aviation value chain and governments as the aviation industry faces complex and dynamic operating, business and geopolitical environments. IndiGo hosted the 2025 AGM and the last AGM in India was last held in 1983. This year, around 1,700 participants attended the event which included industry leaders, government officials and media. “We are excited to bring the IATA AGM to India after a 42-year gap. India's place in global aviation has changed dramatically, particularly over the last decade.

The country has seen record aircraft orders, impressive growth, and world class infrastructure developments. The AGM will allow aviation leaders and journalists from around the world to witness firsthand how India's rapidly modernizing and expanding aviation sector is contributing to the country's overall economic and social development,” said Willie Walsh, IATA's Director General.

India's aviation industry directly employs 369,700 people and generates $5.6 billion of GDP. When indirect, induced and tourism impacts are included, the totals rise to 7.7 million jobs and $53.6 billion of GDP (1.5%).