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Ministry of Civil Aviation
Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Rammohan Naidu has formally launched Wings India 2026, scheduled to take place from 28 to 31 January 2026 at Begumpet Airport, Hyderabad. Themed “Indian Aviation: Paving the Future – From Design to Deployment, Manufacturing to Maintenance, Inclusivity to Innovation and Safety to Sustainability,” the four-day global gathering will showcase India’s vision to become a premier hub for manufacturing and sustainable aviation solutions. The event serves as a critical convergence point for policymakers and industry leaders to deliberate on emerging trends like Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Advanced Air Mobility.
Key Event Highlights and Platforms
Global CEOs Forum: A high-level platform for industry leaders and investors to discuss collaborative pathways for the future of civil aviation.
Thematic Sessions: The international conference will feature 13 thematic sessions covering aircraft leasing, MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), air cargo, and women in aviation.
Innovation Challenge: A specially curated challenge for students and young professionals aimed at promoting industry-oriented problem-solving.
Aviation Job Fair: A dedicated initiative to connect skilled talent across the aviation ecosystem with industry leaders.
Spectacular Displays: Static aircraft displays and aerobatic shows by the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team of the Indian Air Force.
International and Domestic Participation
Global Representation: Ministerial-level delegations and senior officials from more than 20 countries will participate to reinforce international cooperation.
State Showcases: Active participation from Indian states will highlight regional investment opportunities and aviation-led infrastructure growth.
Stakeholder Convergence: Participants include airlines, engine manufacturers, airport developers, and technology providers across the entire aviation value chain.
What is ‘Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)’ and why is it a focal point of Wings India 2026? It refers to an air transportation system that moves people and property by air using highly automated aircraft, such as electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles, typically in urban or short-range environments. Wings India 2026 identifies AAM as a focal point because it represents the next frontier of sustainable urban transportation, offering solutions to ground congestion while aligning with India’s broader goals for innovation and safety. By hosting dedicated sessions on AAM and drones, the event aims to position India as a leading adopter and manufacturer of these disruptive, zero-emission aviation technologies.
Policy Relevance
The event underscores India’s strategic push to localize the aviation value chain and lead global discourse on sustainable aviation practices.
Strategic Impact for India:
Scaling ‘Make in India’ in Aerospace: By focusing on “Design to Deployment,” the event seeks to attract global OEMs to establish manufacturing and MRO bases within India.
Decarbonizing Aviation: Discussions on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) are critical for meeting India’s net-zero targets and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the sector.
Promoting Inclusivity: The dedicated “Women in Aviation” session highlights a policy priority to enhance gender diversity and representation in high-tech aerospace roles.
Enhancing Regional Connectivity: Showcasing state-led infrastructure development supports the government’s goal of making air travel affordable and accessible to Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders: How can the Ministry of Civil Aviation facilitate the creation of ‘Green Aviation Corridors’ that incentivize the early adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) across domestic flight routes?
Follow the full news here: Wings India 2026: Charting the Future of Global Civil Aviation

