Major Air Routes - India | Oxford Student ATLAS: Maps & Tests - UPSC PDF Download

 Page 1


Major Air Routes
National Airways - Enhancing India's Air Transport System
Page 2


Major Air Routes
National Airways - Enhancing India's Air Transport System
Major Air Routes
Introduction
Airways are a vital component of modern transportation, playing a critical role in
facilitating trade and commerce. The remarkable characteristic of air travel lies in
its exceptional speed, with aircraft capable of reaching top speeds of 500 km/h.
Some planes even have the ability to travel at supersonic speeds. Indian civil
aviation, ranked 9th globally, stands out for its rapidity, outpacing other modes of
transportation. Over the past few years, India's civil aviation industry has
experienced significant growth, emerging as one of the country's fastest-
expanding sectors. It is projected that by 2024, India will surpass the United
Kingdom to become the world's third-largest domestic aviation market. This
article aims to provide valuable insights into National Airways, offering valuable
information for candidates preparing for the UPSC Civil Service exam, particularly
in the geography section.
Historical Background
India's civil aviation industry traces its roots back to the historic occasion of the
Kumbh Mela when the world's first airmail service was launched in Allahabad on
February 18, 1911. This event marked the birth of India's civil aviation industry.
However, it was during the post-independence period that the industry truly
flourished. In February 1929, JRD Tata, on behalf of the Aero Club of India and
Burma, received the first pilot license from Aeronautique International. This
marked the introduction of Tata Air Services, India's first airline, in 1932. The
airline's inaugural flight, from Karachi to Mumbai, took place in October 1932.
Over the years, several other airlines emerged, including Indian Trans-Continental
Airways, Madras Air Taxi Services, and Indian National Airlines. In 1938, the airline
expanded its operations internationally, adding Colombo, Sri Lanka, to its route
network. In 1948, Air India and the government entered into an agreement to
operate international flights under the name Air India International Ltd. The
airline commenced its international service on June 8, the same year, connecting
Bombay and London via Cairo and Geneva. In 1995, the merger of the
International Airport Authority of India and the National Airports Authority led to
the establishment of the Airport Authority of India (AAI). The AAI is responsible
for ensuring safe and efficient air traffic and aeronautical communication services
in Indian airspace, overseeing 125 airports across the country. Additionally, some
private companies have expanded their operations globally, contributing to the
growth of the Indian aviation industry.
Page 3


Major Air Routes
National Airways - Enhancing India's Air Transport System
Major Air Routes
Introduction
Airways are a vital component of modern transportation, playing a critical role in
facilitating trade and commerce. The remarkable characteristic of air travel lies in
its exceptional speed, with aircraft capable of reaching top speeds of 500 km/h.
Some planes even have the ability to travel at supersonic speeds. Indian civil
aviation, ranked 9th globally, stands out for its rapidity, outpacing other modes of
transportation. Over the past few years, India's civil aviation industry has
experienced significant growth, emerging as one of the country's fastest-
expanding sectors. It is projected that by 2024, India will surpass the United
Kingdom to become the world's third-largest domestic aviation market. This
article aims to provide valuable insights into National Airways, offering valuable
information for candidates preparing for the UPSC Civil Service exam, particularly
in the geography section.
Historical Background
India's civil aviation industry traces its roots back to the historic occasion of the
Kumbh Mela when the world's first airmail service was launched in Allahabad on
February 18, 1911. This event marked the birth of India's civil aviation industry.
However, it was during the post-independence period that the industry truly
flourished. In February 1929, JRD Tata, on behalf of the Aero Club of India and
Burma, received the first pilot license from Aeronautique International. This
marked the introduction of Tata Air Services, India's first airline, in 1932. The
airline's inaugural flight, from Karachi to Mumbai, took place in October 1932.
Over the years, several other airlines emerged, including Indian Trans-Continental
Airways, Madras Air Taxi Services, and Indian National Airlines. In 1938, the airline
expanded its operations internationally, adding Colombo, Sri Lanka, to its route
network. In 1948, Air India and the government entered into an agreement to
operate international flights under the name Air India International Ltd. The
airline commenced its international service on June 8, the same year, connecting
Bombay and London via Cairo and Geneva. In 1995, the merger of the
International Airport Authority of India and the National Airports Authority led to
the establishment of the Airport Authority of India (AAI). The AAI is responsible
for ensuring safe and efficient air traffic and aeronautical communication services
in Indian airspace, overseeing 125 airports across the country. Additionally, some
private companies have expanded their operations globally, contributing to the
growth of the Indian aviation industry.
Major Air Routes
Need for Airways in India
The vastness of India necessitates the importance of the aviation sector in
enabling faster communication. Unlike other modes of transportation, aircraft
have the ability to access any location without physical barriers. Air travel proves
especially crucial for reaching remote and isolated regions that are inaccessible
via other means. For instance, the deserts of Rajasthan, the high-altitude regions
of Leh, and the forested areas of North East India can be easily accessed through
airports. This highlights the significance of airways in connecting geographically
challenging areas.
Favourable Factors for Indian Air Transport
Several favorable factors contribute to the growth of air transport in India. Firstly,
India's weather conditions are generally conducive to air travel, with clear
weather and limited instances of extreme weather conditions that could disrupt
flight operations. This allows for more reliable and predictable scheduling of
flights.
Secondly, India's geographical location serves as a strategic advantage for air
transport. Situated at the crossroads of major air routes between Europe, Asia,
and Africa, India serves as a crucial transit hub for international flights. This
geographical advantage makes India an attractive destination for airlines looking
to expand their operations and establish connectivity between different regions.
Another favorable factor is the rapid economic growth and increasing disposable
income of the Indian population. As more people enter the middle class and
experience higher levels of income, the demand for air travel has witnessed a
significant upswing. Air travel is no longer considered a luxury exclusive to the
affluent; it has become more accessible to a larger segment of the population.
This growing demand has stimulated the expansion of domestic airlines and the
introduction of new routes and destinations.
Furthermore, the Indian government has taken various measures to promote the
growth of the aviation sector. The liberalization of air transport policies, such as
the Open Skies policy and the introduction of the Regional Connectivity Scheme
(UDAN), has encouraged the entry of new airlines and the expansion of existing
ones. These initiatives aim to enhance connectivity to remote areas, promote
Page 4


Major Air Routes
National Airways - Enhancing India's Air Transport System
Major Air Routes
Introduction
Airways are a vital component of modern transportation, playing a critical role in
facilitating trade and commerce. The remarkable characteristic of air travel lies in
its exceptional speed, with aircraft capable of reaching top speeds of 500 km/h.
Some planes even have the ability to travel at supersonic speeds. Indian civil
aviation, ranked 9th globally, stands out for its rapidity, outpacing other modes of
transportation. Over the past few years, India's civil aviation industry has
experienced significant growth, emerging as one of the country's fastest-
expanding sectors. It is projected that by 2024, India will surpass the United
Kingdom to become the world's third-largest domestic aviation market. This
article aims to provide valuable insights into National Airways, offering valuable
information for candidates preparing for the UPSC Civil Service exam, particularly
in the geography section.
Historical Background
India's civil aviation industry traces its roots back to the historic occasion of the
Kumbh Mela when the world's first airmail service was launched in Allahabad on
February 18, 1911. This event marked the birth of India's civil aviation industry.
However, it was during the post-independence period that the industry truly
flourished. In February 1929, JRD Tata, on behalf of the Aero Club of India and
Burma, received the first pilot license from Aeronautique International. This
marked the introduction of Tata Air Services, India's first airline, in 1932. The
airline's inaugural flight, from Karachi to Mumbai, took place in October 1932.
Over the years, several other airlines emerged, including Indian Trans-Continental
Airways, Madras Air Taxi Services, and Indian National Airlines. In 1938, the airline
expanded its operations internationally, adding Colombo, Sri Lanka, to its route
network. In 1948, Air India and the government entered into an agreement to
operate international flights under the name Air India International Ltd. The
airline commenced its international service on June 8, the same year, connecting
Bombay and London via Cairo and Geneva. In 1995, the merger of the
International Airport Authority of India and the National Airports Authority led to
the establishment of the Airport Authority of India (AAI). The AAI is responsible
for ensuring safe and efficient air traffic and aeronautical communication services
in Indian airspace, overseeing 125 airports across the country. Additionally, some
private companies have expanded their operations globally, contributing to the
growth of the Indian aviation industry.
Major Air Routes
Need for Airways in India
The vastness of India necessitates the importance of the aviation sector in
enabling faster communication. Unlike other modes of transportation, aircraft
have the ability to access any location without physical barriers. Air travel proves
especially crucial for reaching remote and isolated regions that are inaccessible
via other means. For instance, the deserts of Rajasthan, the high-altitude regions
of Leh, and the forested areas of North East India can be easily accessed through
airports. This highlights the significance of airways in connecting geographically
challenging areas.
Favourable Factors for Indian Air Transport
Several favorable factors contribute to the growth of air transport in India. Firstly,
India's weather conditions are generally conducive to air travel, with clear
weather and limited instances of extreme weather conditions that could disrupt
flight operations. This allows for more reliable and predictable scheduling of
flights.
Secondly, India's geographical location serves as a strategic advantage for air
transport. Situated at the crossroads of major air routes between Europe, Asia,
and Africa, India serves as a crucial transit hub for international flights. This
geographical advantage makes India an attractive destination for airlines looking
to expand their operations and establish connectivity between different regions.
Another favorable factor is the rapid economic growth and increasing disposable
income of the Indian population. As more people enter the middle class and
experience higher levels of income, the demand for air travel has witnessed a
significant upswing. Air travel is no longer considered a luxury exclusive to the
affluent; it has become more accessible to a larger segment of the population.
This growing demand has stimulated the expansion of domestic airlines and the
introduction of new routes and destinations.
Furthermore, the Indian government has taken various measures to promote the
growth of the aviation sector. The liberalization of air transport policies, such as
the Open Skies policy and the introduction of the Regional Connectivity Scheme
(UDAN), has encouraged the entry of new airlines and the expansion of existing
ones. These initiatives aim to enhance connectivity to remote areas, promote
Major Air Routes
regional development, and make air travel more affordable for the common
people.
Market Size of Indian Aviation Industry
The Indian aviation industry has experienced robust growth in recent years.
According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, domestic air passenger traffic in India
reached approximately 341 million passengers in 2021. This represents a
significant increase from the 61 million passengers recorded in 2010. The rapid
growth in passenger traffic has led to increased aircraft movement and the
expansion of airport infrastructure across the country.
In terms of market share, IndiGo Airlines, operated by InterGlobe Aviation, has
emerged as the leading domestic airline in India, commanding a significant
portion of the market. Other major players in the industry include Air India,
SpiceJet, GoAir, and Vistara. The competition among these airlines has led to
competitive pricing, improved services, and increased connectivity options for
passengers.
The cargo segment of the aviation industry has also witnessed substantial growth.
India's e-commerce boom and the rise of logistics and supply chain networks have
contributed to increased demand for air cargo services. The industry has
responded by expanding cargo handling capabilities and investing in dedicated
freighter aircraft.
Role of Airways in Regional Development
Airways play a crucial role in fostering regional development by promoting
connectivity, tourism, and trade. Improved air connectivity to remote and
underdeveloped regions helps unlock their economic potential by attracting
investments, facilitating the movement of goods and services, and boosting
tourism.
Airports act as gateways to regions, providing access to markets and
opportunities. They facilitate the movement of people, goods, and capital, which
are essential for economic growth. Additionally, the development of airport
infrastructure creates employment opportunities and generates revenue for local
communities.
Page 5


Major Air Routes
National Airways - Enhancing India's Air Transport System
Major Air Routes
Introduction
Airways are a vital component of modern transportation, playing a critical role in
facilitating trade and commerce. The remarkable characteristic of air travel lies in
its exceptional speed, with aircraft capable of reaching top speeds of 500 km/h.
Some planes even have the ability to travel at supersonic speeds. Indian civil
aviation, ranked 9th globally, stands out for its rapidity, outpacing other modes of
transportation. Over the past few years, India's civil aviation industry has
experienced significant growth, emerging as one of the country's fastest-
expanding sectors. It is projected that by 2024, India will surpass the United
Kingdom to become the world's third-largest domestic aviation market. This
article aims to provide valuable insights into National Airways, offering valuable
information for candidates preparing for the UPSC Civil Service exam, particularly
in the geography section.
Historical Background
India's civil aviation industry traces its roots back to the historic occasion of the
Kumbh Mela when the world's first airmail service was launched in Allahabad on
February 18, 1911. This event marked the birth of India's civil aviation industry.
However, it was during the post-independence period that the industry truly
flourished. In February 1929, JRD Tata, on behalf of the Aero Club of India and
Burma, received the first pilot license from Aeronautique International. This
marked the introduction of Tata Air Services, India's first airline, in 1932. The
airline's inaugural flight, from Karachi to Mumbai, took place in October 1932.
Over the years, several other airlines emerged, including Indian Trans-Continental
Airways, Madras Air Taxi Services, and Indian National Airlines. In 1938, the airline
expanded its operations internationally, adding Colombo, Sri Lanka, to its route
network. In 1948, Air India and the government entered into an agreement to
operate international flights under the name Air India International Ltd. The
airline commenced its international service on June 8, the same year, connecting
Bombay and London via Cairo and Geneva. In 1995, the merger of the
International Airport Authority of India and the National Airports Authority led to
the establishment of the Airport Authority of India (AAI). The AAI is responsible
for ensuring safe and efficient air traffic and aeronautical communication services
in Indian airspace, overseeing 125 airports across the country. Additionally, some
private companies have expanded their operations globally, contributing to the
growth of the Indian aviation industry.
Major Air Routes
Need for Airways in India
The vastness of India necessitates the importance of the aviation sector in
enabling faster communication. Unlike other modes of transportation, aircraft
have the ability to access any location without physical barriers. Air travel proves
especially crucial for reaching remote and isolated regions that are inaccessible
via other means. For instance, the deserts of Rajasthan, the high-altitude regions
of Leh, and the forested areas of North East India can be easily accessed through
airports. This highlights the significance of airways in connecting geographically
challenging areas.
Favourable Factors for Indian Air Transport
Several favorable factors contribute to the growth of air transport in India. Firstly,
India's weather conditions are generally conducive to air travel, with clear
weather and limited instances of extreme weather conditions that could disrupt
flight operations. This allows for more reliable and predictable scheduling of
flights.
Secondly, India's geographical location serves as a strategic advantage for air
transport. Situated at the crossroads of major air routes between Europe, Asia,
and Africa, India serves as a crucial transit hub for international flights. This
geographical advantage makes India an attractive destination for airlines looking
to expand their operations and establish connectivity between different regions.
Another favorable factor is the rapid economic growth and increasing disposable
income of the Indian population. As more people enter the middle class and
experience higher levels of income, the demand for air travel has witnessed a
significant upswing. Air travel is no longer considered a luxury exclusive to the
affluent; it has become more accessible to a larger segment of the population.
This growing demand has stimulated the expansion of domestic airlines and the
introduction of new routes and destinations.
Furthermore, the Indian government has taken various measures to promote the
growth of the aviation sector. The liberalization of air transport policies, such as
the Open Skies policy and the introduction of the Regional Connectivity Scheme
(UDAN), has encouraged the entry of new airlines and the expansion of existing
ones. These initiatives aim to enhance connectivity to remote areas, promote
Major Air Routes
regional development, and make air travel more affordable for the common
people.
Market Size of Indian Aviation Industry
The Indian aviation industry has experienced robust growth in recent years.
According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, domestic air passenger traffic in India
reached approximately 341 million passengers in 2021. This represents a
significant increase from the 61 million passengers recorded in 2010. The rapid
growth in passenger traffic has led to increased aircraft movement and the
expansion of airport infrastructure across the country.
In terms of market share, IndiGo Airlines, operated by InterGlobe Aviation, has
emerged as the leading domestic airline in India, commanding a significant
portion of the market. Other major players in the industry include Air India,
SpiceJet, GoAir, and Vistara. The competition among these airlines has led to
competitive pricing, improved services, and increased connectivity options for
passengers.
The cargo segment of the aviation industry has also witnessed substantial growth.
India's e-commerce boom and the rise of logistics and supply chain networks have
contributed to increased demand for air cargo services. The industry has
responded by expanding cargo handling capabilities and investing in dedicated
freighter aircraft.
Role of Airways in Regional Development
Airways play a crucial role in fostering regional development by promoting
connectivity, tourism, and trade. Improved air connectivity to remote and
underdeveloped regions helps unlock their economic potential by attracting
investments, facilitating the movement of goods and services, and boosting
tourism.
Airports act as gateways to regions, providing access to markets and
opportunities. They facilitate the movement of people, goods, and capital, which
are essential for economic growth. Additionally, the development of airport
infrastructure creates employment opportunities and generates revenue for local
communities.
Major Air Routes
Air travel also plays a pivotal role in promoting tourism. India's rich cultural
heritage, diverse landscapes, and historical sites attract millions of tourists each
year. Air travel provides convenient and efficient transportation for domestic and
international tourists, contributing to the growth of the tourism industry and the
overall economy.
Challenges of the Aviation Sector
Despite the significant growth and potential of the aviation sector in India, it faces
several challenges that need to be addressed for sustainable development. Some
of these challenges include:
1. Infrastructure Constraints: The rapid growth in air travel has put strain on
existing airport infrastructure. Many airports are operating beyond their
capacity, leading to congestion and delays. The expansion and
modernization of airport infrastructure are crucial to meet the increasing
demand and improve passenger experience.
2. High Operating Costs: Airlines face high operating costs, primarily driven by
fuel prices, taxes, and fees. These costs impact the profitability of airlines
and their ability to offer competitive fares. Measures to reduce operating
costs, such as rationalizing taxes and charges, can help make air travel more
affordable for passengers.
3. Skilled Manpower: The aviation industry requires a skilled workforce across
various domains, including pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, and
ground staff. However, there is a shortage of trained professionals in
certain areas, which poses a challenge to the industry's growth. Efforts to
enhance skill development and training programs can help address this
issue.
4. Environmental Impact: Aviation is a significant contributor to greenhouse
gas emissions and environmental pollution. As the industry grows,
addressing its environmental impact becomes crucial. Encouraging the
adoption of sustainable practices, investing in greener technologies, and
implementing carbon offset initiatives are essential steps toward achieving
a more sustainable aviation sector.
5. Regulatory Framework: The aviation industry operates under a complex
regulatory framework that involves multiple authorities and agencies.