The 7th Helicopter and Small Aircraft Summit held in Pune brought together key policymakers, industry leaders, and state representatives to advance India’s regional aviation goals. Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu said helicopters and small aircraft are central to democratizing flight under Prime Minister Modi’s vision. He announced a dedicated Helicopter Directorate under DGCA to streamline regulatory procedures and ensure safety.
The Minister emphasized building a robust safety culture and making regional air transport a cornerstone of India’s development goals under Viksit Bharat 2047. Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol highlighted modernization of air traffic systems, green fuels, eVTOL policy inclusion, and expanded training programs for pilots and technicians. He underlined plans to integrate air ambulances into national healthcare, especially in remote areas.
DGCA chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai reinforced the focus on compliance and operational expansion. The summit featured technical sessions on safety, financing, and manufacturing, with participation from 20 states, NDMA, IFSCA, Pawan Hans, and senior aviation officials. New initiatives under RCS-UDAN 5.1 and 5.5 were also discussed, including updated norms for seaplanes.
The summit marked a major step in shaping India’s air mobility ecosystem through policy reform, technology adoption, and safety-centered growth.
