New Delhi, May 08, 2026: Delivering the keynote address at the India Aircraft Leasing and Financing Summit 2.0 at GIFT City, in Gandhinagar today, the Minister stated that Gujarat serves as India’s window to the world, leading the charge in bringing aviation financing home with GIFT City becoming a global centre for aircraft leasing and financing.
Highlighting the sector’s exponential growth, Mr. Naidu noted that India has emerged as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally, with domestic passenger traffic in 2026 alone reaching 191 million. He projected that the current commercial fleet of 1,100 aircraft is expected to triple by 2035. The Minister emphasized that the government’s focus is not just on fleet expansion but on creating an ecosystem that competes with and leads the global industry. He urged the stakeholders to view aircraft as a long-term financial infrastructure asset, essential for achieving the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat.’
According to the reports published in newsonair.gov.in the minister also announced that seaplane operations will soon begin in Lakshadweep to strengthen regional connectivity. Several MoUs were signed and key announcements were made by major aviation players to boost leasing activities at GIFT City.
