Message from President, BAOA

Dear Members,

As we continue to navigate a transforming aviation landscape, I wish to share important developments and reaffirm the critical role Business Aviation will continue to play in powering India’s economic trajectory.

The recent GST announcements, applicable from September 22, 2025, mark movement towards two slabs system for India’s GST framework. While most sectors have moved to a simplified two-slab system, aviation has been distinctly placed under a three-slab structure—5 per cent, 18 per cent, and 40 per cent—depending on usage and class of service.

This steep increase places Private corporate aviation operations under expanded tax pressure, particularly for companies and entrepreneurs who rely on private ownership models to meet their business travel needs.

Against this backdrop, BAOA stands more determined than ever. We are committed to pursuing all possible avenues—including an international collaborative approach—to advocate for rationalisation of the punitive 40 per cent GST on corporate aviation. Business Aviation must be recognised as a critical utility that enables connectivity, efficiency, and growth—not as a luxury.

The reality is clear - CEOs, Entrepreneurs, and Global Business Leaders are leveraging private aircraft to travel internationally, secure large-scale FDI commitments, and contribute to India’s growing global footprint. Each such flight is not a symbol of indulgence, but of strategic mobility—creating jobs, boosting infrastructure, and accelerating economic growth.

BAOA remains deeply engaged in policy discussions with NITI Aayog, the Ministry of Finance, MoCA, and DGCA, to ensure regulatory and tax frameworks reflect the sector’s true contribution to India’s economy.

We are also pressing for the expedited commencement of Char Dham operations, working closely with MoCA, DGCA and UCADA to ensure the highest standards of safety and reliability are embedded in these crucial helicopter services.

Looking ahead, your participation will be critical in shaping the sector’s future. I strongly urge all members to join-

• The Annual General Meeting (AGM) on November 14, 2025 in Delhi, a key occasion to refine our collective agenda.
• The BizAvIndia Conference on January 27, 2026 in Hyderabad, the premier platform for policy advocacy, innovation, and showcasing industry leadership.

BAOA is resolute in advancing Business Aviation’s rightful role as an engine of India’s progress. With your support and active involvement, we will continue to strengthen our advocacy and secure a more sustainable and enabling policy environment.

Together, we can ensure that Business Aviation is accepted as a catalyst for India’s journey towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.