Skyone News | Business Jets Powering India’s Aviation

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The rise of business jets in India’s aviation story

In 1997, the Wolfgang Petersen thriller ‘Air Force One’ was released and became a significant hit. It offered a cinematic glimpse into what was considered to be one of the most powerful aircraft in the world, highlighting the elements that set it apart from other jets. Harrison Ford played President James Marshall, and the film’s technical finesse was praised by critics, making it one of the year’s top grossers. The authentic detailing of the aircraft continues to fascinate viewers even after 28 years. For the shoot, the makers rented a Boeing 747-146, N703CK, from Kalitta Air and repainted it to replicate the Air Force One livery.

Even off the silver screen, private jets have long symbolised power and captured mass imagination. From Russian President Vladimir Putin’s IL-96-300PU, France’s former president François Hollande’s Airbus A330-200, the Sultan of Brunei’s “Flying Palace” Airbus A340-212, to the Pope’s intercontinental Airbus A330-200, called the “Raffaello Sanzio” when he is onboard, these privately owned and chartered aircraft ...
... have been regarded as marvels of the skies. Once exclusive to a select few, these jets are now reaching a wider segment of society.

In India, this shift is evident as civil aviation scales new heights following the pandemic. The rising number of high-net-worth individuals, the global expansion of Indian companies, and growth in aviation leasing through GIFT City have all contributed to this change. As India Inc. expands internationally, the need for flexible, time-specific travel has driven demand for customised aviation solutions.

The trend is reflected in recent data. According to the Asian Sky Group, India added the highest number of private jets in the Asia-Pacific region in 2024, with the fleet growing by 12 per cent from 150 to 168 aircraft. The country now ranks third in the area, behind only China and Australia. Statista projects that revenue in India’s business jet market will reach US$193 million in 2025, as per its report ‘Business Jets – India’.
Another factor is the rise of business hubs in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where operating costs are lower than those in metropolitan areas. Government initiatives like UDAN have improved air connectivity to these cities. The ultra-high-net-worth population is also expected to grow by 50 per cent by 2028, likely boosting private jet use for business, family events, celebrations, and leisure travel.

India currently has four dedicated private terminals in Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, and Telangana, with several other airports accommodating charter flights. However, more business aviation terminals and ramp space are needed to support growth. Fixed Base Operators (FBOs), or mini terminals at major airports, offering fuel facilities, hangar space, maintenance, lounges, and waiting areas, are essential for sustaining momentum.

Challenges remain, including the need to revise tax rules, regulate emerging services such as fractional ownership, and expand training facilities to meet the demand for pilots. The sector also requires easier airport access, greater flexibility for Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations in certain conditions, and improved domestic facilities for critical services such as engine overhauls.

In summation, the coming years represent a pivotal phase for India’s business travel sector. Advances in eco-friendly practices, modern technologies, and traveller-focused strategies are reshaping the industry. Both individuals and corporations are adopting innovative solutions that improve efficiency, ensure comfort, and align with international standards. With a strong focus on customised and responsible travel, the future of business travel in India looks highly promising.

Source: ET Insights