Message from President, BAOA

Dear Members,

I am pleased to update you on the continuous and meaningful engagement that BAOA has been having with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) over the past months. These interactions are aimed at ensuring that the policy and regulatory framework for General and Business Aviation (GA/BA) evolves in a way that promotes growth while maintaining the highest standards of safety.

As part of this ongoing dialogue, DGCA has constituted four dedicated committees to examine and propose amendments to various Civil Aviation Requirements (CARs). I am happy to share that BAOA has been nominated to all four committees, which are now meeting regularly. This is a significant step forward, ensuring that inputs from the GA/BA sector are well represented and that the revised CARs reflect the specific operational needs of non-scheduled and general aviation operators, without compromising on safety.

In another important development, BAOA has been invited to actively participate in the upcoming Helicopter and Small Aircraft Summit scheduled to be held in Pune, Maharashtra, on June 24, 2025. We see this as a valuable opportunity to further advance our advocacy for recognising the pivotal role of general and business aviation as a key enabler in India’s journey towards becoming a Viksit Bharat.

On the infrastructure front, BAOA is actively working with its Mumbai-based members to address recent parking challenges, including abrupt and unfair cancellations of existing parking permissions. Our collective efforts, in coordination with senior government officials and the DGCA, are aimed not only at resolving the current situation but also at developing a sustainable, collaborative and forward-looking approach to GA/BA infrastructure at brownfield airports across India.

The recent fatal accident in Uttrakhand, we strongly urge the helicopter operators community to review every aspect of procedure and safety measure as stringently as possible ensuring the fool proof operations thereby full safety of the passengers - the very key to the business.

As always, safety remains our foremost priority. Recent incidents in the sector are a reminder of the constant vigilance and adherence to best practices required of us all—especially during the ongoing Char Dham Yatra season, when traffic and risks are heightened. Let us all renew our commitment to safe and efficient flying.

BAOA remains steadfast in its mission to serve and support our members through constructive engagement, collaborative problem-solving, and advocacy for long-term growth of general and business aviation in India.

Wishing all of you safe skies and happy landings!