Year Ender 2023: DigiYatras To Mega Orders, Indian Aviation Reaches Uncharted Heights

Bidding adieu to yet another eventful year, the Indian aviation sector stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and transformation. The skies above the subcontinent have witnessed a series of highs and lows, from bankruptcies to mega orders to unexpected turbulence. The year 2023 has set new records for the Indian aviation industry.

The Rise Of DigiYatra
One of the defining chapters of 2023 in Indian aviation was the official launch of DigiYatra, a digital initiative aimed at enhancing the passenger experience. Using facial recognition and biometrics has helped streamline the entire passenger journey, from check-in to boarding. This innovative leap places India on the global map of tech-driven aviation services, ensuring smoother and more secure air travel for millions.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has announced that the application, which is currently available in 13 airports including Delhi and Mumbai International Airport, has been used by over 9 million passengers so far. The same facility will be expanded to 25 more airports in 2024.

Mega Airbus Deals
Witnessing a seismic shift with mass orders flooding in, 2023 has reshaped the aviation landscape. Airbus, the European aviation giant, secured huge orders, underlining the confidence of Indian carriers in the A320neo and A321neo aircraft. 

Earlier this year, Air India placed mega orders of 843 planes from Boeing and Airbus, while, Akasa Air made headlines by announcing orders for 72 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. 

Air Traffic Surge
Despite the uncertainties in the global landscape, the Indian airspace experienced a notable surge in air traffic. As the nation regained its footing after pandemic-induced restrictions, the aviation sector demonstrated remarkable resilience. The robust domestic market, coupled with the gradual reopening of international routes, contributed to a steady rise in passenger numbers, marking a pivotal moment in the industry's recovery.

On 19 November, Indian airlines carried a record-breaking 456,910 domestic passengers, the highest since the onset of the pandemic. This marked a notable 7.4 per cent increase above pre-COVID averages.

Go First Bankruptcy
What's an aviation year without some turbulence, Go First, formerly known as GoAir faced financial troubles which resulted in bankruptcy. A prominent budget airline in Indian aviation, had to formally file for bankruptcy in May 2023, mentioning financial losses caused by factors such as the Covid-19 pandemic, increased fuel costs and engine procurement issues.

Additionally, the airline announced a possible closure in November, which raised concerns over the welfare of employees and refunds for passengers.

Green Revolution Takes Flight
As environmental concerns continue to gain prominence globally, India's aviation sector has taken major steps towards sustainability. From practising eco-friendly steps to adopting measures to reduce carbon emissions and enhance fuel efficiency.

The primary cause of carbon emissions at airports is the utilisation of traditional energy sources. To lessen the carbon footprint associated with airports, it is crucial to replace these sources with green energy. Therefore, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has recommended that all operational airports with scheduled services, as well as developers of new airports, strive to achieve Carbon Neutrality and net Zero. 

Currently, 66 airports across the country operate entirely on 100% Green Energy.

Regional Connectivity
In the pursuit of fostering regional connectivity, the year saw the launch of new routes and the expansion of existing networks. The government's UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme played a pivotal role in connecting smaller cities and towns, unlocking economic potential and bringing air travel within the reach of a broader spectrum of the population.

As the curtain falls on 2023, the story of India's aviation sector remains susceptible to external forces. From the digital frontier of DigiYatra to the mega orders that promise a fleet of the future, from the turbulence of financial woes to the eco-conscious strides towards sustainability, the year ahead showcases a glimpse of growth and an exciting chapter in the Indian aviation sector.