New Delhi, June 1, 2025 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the prestigious 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) on June 2, 2025, at around 5 PM at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The Prime Minister will also deliver a keynote address to a distinguished gathering of aviation industry leaders from across the globe.
This is a historic moment for India as the IATA AGM returns to the country after a long gap of 42 years. The last time India hosted this international aviation event was in 1983.
Global Focus on Indian Aviation
The IATA AGM and World Air Transport Summit (WATS), scheduled from June 1 to 3, is one of the most influential forums for the global air transport sector. This year, the event has drawn more than 1,600 participants, including top CEOs of global airlines, government officials, and international media representatives.
The Prime Minister’s participation aligns with his broader vision of creating world-class air infrastructure and improving air connectivity across India. Under his leadership, India’s aviation sector has witnessed remarkable growth, with expansion in both passenger and cargo capacity, modernization of airports, and greater regional connectivity.
Key Themes of the Summit
The World Air Transport Summit will focus on several crucial topics affecting the aviation industry today and in the future:
- Economics of the Airline Industry
- Air Connectivity and Route Development
- Energy Security
- Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Production
- Financing Decarbonisation
- Innovation and Technology in Aviation
These topics are vital as the industry seeks to recover fully from the pandemic, navigate rising operational costs, and transition to a more sustainable future.
Showcasing India’s Aviation Growth
India’s aviation industry is now one of the fastest-growing in the world, with millions of new flyers joining the skies each year. The country’s efforts toward green airports, low-emission aviation, and airspace modernization are expected to be highlighted during the summit.
International delegates will also get the opportunity to observe India’s transformation in the aviation sector and its positive impact on the nation’s socio-economic development. Several sessions during the summit will showcase how improved air connectivity in India has helped in boosting tourism, regional development, employment, and trade.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
The IATA event provides a platform to strengthen India’s global partnerships in aviation. With the presence of international aviation giants and stakeholders, the event is expected to open avenues for collaborations, investments, and policy innovation that can further boost India’s aviation ecosystem.
The Prime Minister’s speech is anticipated to focus on the government’s initiatives in aviation, India’s goals for carbon neutrality, and the importance of global cooperation in building a sustainable aviation future.
