Defying the global economic downturn, Aero India 2009 showcased great expectations and strong participation. We hold a mirror to the hopes, aspirations and ground realities.

International events invariably present a dichotomy. While serving as a fulcrum for convergence of brilliant ideas, astute intelligence and business acumen from across the globe, such occasions also warrant the full attention and spotlight of the world, exposing the host to the admiration and criticism of participants and keen observers alike. Ditto for Aero India 2009.

A whopping 303 companies from abroad along with 289 from India converged at Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru from February 11 to 15, eyeing a chunk of the $30 billion (Rs 1,50,000 crore) pie on offer from the Indian government in return for military aircraft and other defence related equipment. Not surprisingly, the atmosphere was charged with expectations and, quite literally, noisy—with the deafening roar of combat jets drowning out conversations and making it nearly impossible to conduct business transactions. In the context of the overall objective of Aero India, the value of flying display ought to be viewed in the correct perspective vis-à-vis the need to facilitate business dialogue which is relatively more important. In case of Aero India 2009, the strategic objective of the exercise appeared somewhat blurred.

Holding a mirror to the hopes, aspirations and ground realities, the cover story reflects the awesome transition of the air show to an international event of import with strong participation by the giants of the industry. The response, as expected, has been overwhelming and some of the leading voices spoke to SP’s Aviation, expressing pleasure and satisfaction—a few even candid in admitting discomfort at poor facilities like inadequate restrooms. One hopes that the creases will be ironed out and the 2011 chapter of Aero India emerge even stronger.

Away from the hullabaloo in Bengaluru, the close shave between an Air India aircraft and IAF helicopter carrying President Pratibha Patil drew a collective gasp from the nation. Prima facie, it appears to be a case of two different air movements converging on the same spot, Runway 27, without any prior knowledge of each other’s presence. Even as the disaster was miraculously averted, it is imperative that pre-emptive measures are put in place to prevent a recurrence. Delineating the possible causative factors, InFocus and Forum deliberates at length on the state of air traffic management in the country.

In a fitting prelude to an edition dedicated to one of the defence industry’s premier events, this issue throws light on several key operations. Trends in regional airlines, mediumsize business jets and an exclusive interview with Air Marshal J.N. Burma, Air Officer-in-Charge Administration, Air HQ—all make for an eye-opener.