In 2024, what were the main topics of discussion for the Board of Governors?
There were many topics, but one topic we always discuss is the foundational mission of the association to represent, lead, and serve the industry. There are some elements that may not always get the public attention they perhaps deserve, such as the financial settlement systems, safety standards, operational procedures, and global harmonization. These remain very important. The aviation ecosystem has benefited a lot from these elements, and they are something we should always keep an eye on. Clearly, there were also more contemporary topics to discuss, including sustainability, supply chain challenges, and the rising costs facing the industry. They were not specific to my tenure, but they are important issues that haven’t gone away. And last, but not least, there was the need for continuous change at IATA. The organization and structure must be relevant in an ever-changing world. IATA has been working hard for the industry for 80 years. It is a deeply rooted association and has an equally deep knowledge of the industry. The original objectives of IATA are still relevant. There is still a lot to be done on standardization and, importantly, on advocacy. But the world is very different to just a decade ago, and you must ask how the organization has adapted. Look at the growth of China, India, and other countries. How do you integrate these seismic changes into your organization? The Board of Governors applauds IATA’s leadership for making the necessary changes to date, but it is an ongoing process.
Regarding sustainability, is the industry getting the support it needs from partners and policymakers?
Sustainability is an important topic, but it is not something that can be achieved by a single entity or airline. It will take the entire ecosystem to get to net zero carbon emissions. Looking at sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), for example, the producers have to provide adequate volumes; the airport infrastructure has to be in place; and policymakers have to ensure that regulations are realistic, financially doable, and feasible. In a global business, there must be a global focus and global standards. A lot of work has been done, and the industry is getting support in certain aspects or in certain regions. But there is still a long road ahead.
Are you confident that we will reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050?
If we continue on today’s track, the chances are that this will not be achieved, especially if you consider where we are right now with SAF production and technological implementation. But, having said that, just look at the efforts and advancements being made. This is such an innovative industry that we will surely accelerate sustainable initiatives and sustainable ways of flying. If you go back 25 years, did we know about the state of technology today and all the advancements made? I think not. So, if we look ahead 25 years to 2050, I am very optimistic that all players—the airlines, manufacturers, SAF producers, and other dynamics still unknown to us today—will come up with some great solutions that will get us to net zero.
What opportunities and challenges are on the horizon?
Aviation has bounced back from the COVID pandemic, probably faster than anybody anticipated. Today’s reality is that all markets in the world have recovered, and some are significantly above the level where they were in 2019. That puts a lot of pressure on the supply chain. And that is one of the challenges in the foreseeable future. And then there is sustainability, which will remain a focus for many years to come. Diversity is a part of this. We have IATA’s 25by2025 initiative, and we need to look at what we have achieved, what we can be proud of, the lessons learnt, and the immediate next steps. Of course, I would again mention India as a great example of the opportunities on offer and of the great benefits that aviation can bring to an economy. India has started its aviation boom. In 2024, IndiGo welcomed 113 million passengers compared with 75 million passengers pre-COVID. We have added 38 million passengers, which is the size of a respectable airline. That gives you an indication of the burgeoning aviation market in India. And this is why it is such a great location for the 2025 IATA AGM. Aviation is a force for good in the country. India connects different parts of the world and diverse communities and is a great platform for all the benefits of aviation. So, when we talk about growing economic development, fostering trade, mobility, connecting families and friends, and boosting prosperity, you see it all playing out in India.
Are there any issues not getting the attention they deserve?
The rising cost level is one, especially at airports and the manufacturers. Everybody took a hit during COVID, especially the airlines. We have seen a phenomenal recovery, but the rush for capacity has come at a cost. When this normalizes, airlines shouldn’t be confronted with a higher structural cost level. Higher costs can’t be the new normal. This is vital going forward. There are a lot of efficiencies still to be realized, and we need to make sure the entire industry, including airlines, is on a sustainable trajectory.
What value does IndiGo derive from being an IATA member?
IndiGo is only 18 years young. We didn’t join IATA right from the start but became a member in 2019. IndiGo was changing and beginning its international ambitions. That made IATA important. Global standards are essential to international operations but equally crucial domestically for so many reasons. If you want to be part of the conversation surrounding these aspects, then you should join IATA. Then you look at IATA’s advocacy efforts on the global stage. Some 30% of IndiGo’s business (in available seat kilometers) is international. It was just 10% a couple of years ago. A link with a global association is a logical step if you’re growing your business and want to ensure that you can voice an opinion on, or comply with, global standards.
How proud are you to be hosting the IATA Annual General Meeting?
It’s very exciting for India to be hosting the IATA AGM again after 42 years. India and the world have changed a lot since 1983, and this is the right time for the country— and IndiGo—to host the event in New Delhi. India’s domestic aviation industry is experiencing rapid growth and is now world’s third-largest domestic aviation market. IndiGo carries a million passengers every three days, a significant portion of whom are first-time fliers. India is soaring, and so is IndiGo! Aviation is a force for good—we clearly see this happening on a daily basis in India—and therefore India and IndiGo are very excited to host this year’s AGM and look forward to welcoming the global aviation community to this great country.
