Skyways to the Future 2024

Foreword Vumlunmang Vualnam Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation of India Skyways to the Future: Operational Concepts for Advanced Air Mobility in IndiaNovember 2024 The advent of air travel has revolutionized transport, mobilizing millions globally. Today, as technology advances, aviation remains a crucial driver of economic and social connectivity. As the third- largest domestic aerial market globally, India stands at the threshold of a new revolution. With schemes and frameworks aimed at extending aviation to the last mile, advanced air mobility (AAM) presents a unique opportunity to address challenges due to urban sprawl as India experiences rapid economic progress. Furthermore, regional mobility will enhance access to jobs and finance, ensuring no one is left behind in the broader transport network. The value chain of AAM offers India the chance to take a leading position in manufacturing, operations, supply chains and training expertise. Given India’s culturally diverse geography, the seamless integration of AAM into the Indian market will help develop a model for aspiring nations. This concept of operations (CONOPS) report is a key milestone in our journey towards realizing the full potential of AAM in India. It represents the culmination of extensive multistakeholder dialogue among industry leaders, government, regulators and experts from various domains that have set the stage for AAM. To harness this sector’s opportunities, we have built a strong community of purpose to address key elements from an end-user perspective. Since our inaugural session at the Paris Air Show in 2023,1 attended by key decision-makers from India and around the world, we have worked diligently to realize our vision. Further, India’s safety regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has issued comprehensive advisory circulars on commissioning vertiports and ensuring AAM aircraft’s airworthiness. In September 2024, India participated in the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Advanced Air Mobility Symposium in Montreal, where an India-led initiative was showcased.2 The broader objective of the symposium was to raise awareness about the extensive benefits of AAM. Our goal is to curate and develop a safe, sustainable, inclusive and economically viable AAM ecosystem while improving quality of life for all citizens. The CONOPS presented in this report serves as a foundational guide for achieving this vision, providing clear guidance on airspace management, regulatory frameworks, operational standards and community engagement. This report also marks the beginning of a sunrise industry. As we move forward, continuous innovation, collaboration and adaptability will ensure the successful rollout of AAM in India. We are committed to working closely with all stakeholders to realize the vision of making AAM accessible, inclusive, safe and impactful. We are immensely proud of the work that has gone into this effort and believe that it will serve as a foundation for the future of advanced and short-haul air mobility for all (ASHA). Together, we will shape the future of aerial mobility for generations to come. Skyways to the Future: Operational Concepts for Advanced Air Mobility in India 3