Asia Pacific among fastest growing aviation markets in world

Thursday, 19 September 2024 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Civil Aviation Chief Executive Officer and Director General AVM Sagara Kotakadeniya (Retd.) led the Sri Lankan delegation

Ministers and Director Generals

Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation

The second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation was successfully held in New Delhi, India from 11-12 September, following the offer made at the first Ministerial Conference in Beijing, China, in 2018.

The conference focused on addressing key challenges such as infrastructure development, sustainability, and workforce development, while fostering greater collaboration between the public and private sector.

International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano and ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar graced the conference with their presence.

Representing Sri Lanka, Civil Aviation CEO and Director General AVM Sagara Kotakadeniya (Retd.) led the delegation and delivered the statement of Sri Lanka’s commitment to the development of civil aviation on behalf of the Ports, Shipping and Civil Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva. Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd. Vice Chairman Avanthi Senarathne attended as a member of the Sri Lankan delegation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi graced the occasion as Chief Guest and officially announced the “Delhi Declaration” by all member states of the Asia Pacific region during this conference.

This conference and the adoption of the “Delhi Declaration” represent a significant step forward in advancing safety, security, and sustainability in the Asia Pacific civil aviation sector and highlight the spirit of cooperation that exists among the countries of this region.

The event, jointly organised by the Civil Aviation Ministry and the ICAO, brought together transport and aviation ministers, regulatory bodies, and industry experts from across the Asia Pacific region.

Sciacchitano said that the Asia Pacific was among the fastest growing markets in the world. “We are expecting 4.5 billion passengers this year, which will grow to 11.5 billion passengers in 2050. The Asia Pacific is a beacon of this growth,” he added.