WINGS INDIA FLIES

The 2024 edition of Wings India conducted in February in Hyderabad saw the participation of all the industry heavyweights. There were a few orders and some interesting announcements. A Special report.

The 2024 edition of the Wings India summit showcased a series of roundtables and panel discussions addressing diverse aviation-related concerns. The event, held biennially, serves as a nexus for industry leaders and policymakers, aiming to accentuate India's aviation prowess and its ascendancy as the globe's third-largest civil aviation market. Jointly organised by the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, Airports Authority of India, and Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, this year's Wings India unfolded its proceedings at Hyderabad's Begumpet airport and the best of the aviation industry showcased their innovative aviation technology and aircraft machinery at the event whose theme was 'Connecting India to the world in Amrit Kaal: Setting the stage for India Civil Aviation @ 2047:

Highlighting the event were displays such as the Indian Air Force's Sarang helicopters, aircraft from the UK's Mark Jeffries team, and Air India Express' Boeing 737 Max 8, executing breathtaking low fly-bys and intricate manoeuvres.

The spotlight at Wings India 2024 was on the Boeing 777X and Airbus A350-900, both making their debut appearances in India. Air India's order for 20 Airbus A350-900s marked the beginning of deliveries, with the first aircraft being received. An additional five aircraft are slated for delivery by March 2024.

Begumpet Airport marked a historic occasion by hosting the debut of Boeing's newest wide-body jet, the 777-9, which was showcased in a static display at Wings India. Notably, this marked the inaugural landing of a Boeing 777-9 in India.