The 5th Helicopter & Small Aircraft Summit, themed “Reaching the Last Mile: Regional Connectivity through Helicopters & Small Aircraft,” is a significant event scheduled to take place on 25th July 2023 in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. Organized jointly by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Madhya Pradesh, Pawan Hans Ltd., and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the summit aims to provide a common platform for industry stakeholders and policymakers to discuss the growth story of the Indian Helicopter and Small Aircraft industry.
Fostering Growth in the Helicopter & Small Aircraft Industry
The primary objective of the 5th Helicopter & Small Aircraft Summit is to bring together all relevant industry stakeholders, including manufacturers, operators, investors, and regulators, to collectively assess and discuss the growth potential of the Indian Helicopter and Small Aircraft industry. Civilian helicopters have proven to be instrumental in improving accessibility, particularly in remote and hilly areas, where conventional transportation infrastructure is limited or non-existent. These versatile aircraft open up new possibilities for transportation, tourism, and emergency services, making them a crucial component of India’s transportation ecosystem.
Expanding the UDAN Scheme for Rural Connectivity
Another key goal of the summit is to enhance the scope of the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) Scheme, a regional connectivity scheme launched by the Indian government. By leveraging helicopters and small aircraft, the UDAN Scheme aims to enhance connectivity in remote and hilly terrains, bridging the gap between rural and urban areas. This expansion will not only boost accessibility for residents but also stimulate economic development in these regions by encouraging trade, tourism, and investments.
Strengthening Connectivity to Tourism Hotspots
The summit recognizes the potential of helicopters and small aircraft in supporting India’s tourism industry. These aircraft can provide uninterrupted services to places with existing and potential tourism hotspots, offering travelers a unique and captivating perspective of India’s diverse landscapes and cultural destinations. Improved air connectivity to these locations will attract more tourists, thereby contributing to the growth of the tourism sector and generating employment opportunities for local communities.
Emergency and Disaster Management Services
The summit acknowledges the critical role of helicopters in emergency medical services and disaster management. Helicopters play a crucial role during floods, natural disasters, and rescue operations, where they can swiftly reach affected areas and provide assistance. Integrating helicopters and small aircraft into disaster management strategies enhances the country’s preparedness and response capabilities, saving lives and mitigating damage during crises.
The Synergy between Aviation and Tourism
The 5th Heli Summit recognizes the symbiotic relationship between the aviation and tourism industries. A well-connected and efficient aviation sector promotes tourism by making travel to diverse destinations more accessible and convenient for both domestic and international tourists. On the other hand, tourism stimulates the aviation sector by creating demand for air travel to various destinations, leading to increased connectivity and investment in airport infrastructure. This synergy between the two industries further bolsters employment opportunities and drives economic growth across the country.
