The agreement was signed in the presence of Shri Parveen Chaudhary, Managing Director, DIACL. On behalf of AAI, the agreement was signed by Shri Anami Pandey, General Manager (JVC/PPP-II), and on behalf of DIACL by Shri H.M. Chavda, Chief Operating Officer.

This collaboration marks an important milestone in the development and operationalisation of Dholera Airport. It is expected to enhance regional air connectivity and contribute to the growth of India’s aviation infrastructure.

This strategic partnership aims to boost regional air connectivity under the UDAN scheme, driving economic growth across West Bengal’s tourism, trade, and logistics sectors. Senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the State Government, and AAI attended the ceremony to mark this significant push toward safer, faster, and more accessible air travel for the region.

Since its launch in 2016, UDAN has operationalised 687 routes and 95 aerodromes, with more than 3.66 lakh flights carrying around 1.71 crore passengers. The scheme has improved connectivity in remote regions, with airports such as Tezu in Arunachal Pradesh and Purnea in Bihar bringing air services closer to previously underserved areas.

Under Modified UDAN, the government aims to add 120 new destinations and 4 crore additional passenger journeys over the next 10 years, with participation from more than 20 states. The initiative will focus on affordability, sustainable operations, transparent project selection and promotion of indigenous aircraft manufacturing, supporting India’s broader ambition to develop a Made-in-India civil aviation ecosystem.

Under the agreement, AAI will facilitate AMPAP training for more than 115 airport professionals over the next five years. On successful completion of the programme, participants will earn the internationally recognised International Aviation Professional designation. Globally, over 1,400 professionals from 120 countries have received this accreditation, with 173 already from India, positioning the country as an emerging contributor to global aviation leadership.

The agreement was formally exchanged between AAI Chairman Vipin Kumar and Gurjit Gill, Director (Global), Airports Council International and ICAO, in the presence of Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu and senior officials during Wings India 2026 at Begumpet Airport on January 29. AAI said the initiative, driven by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, will equip professionals with advanced skills in airport economics, sustainability, safety, resilience, innovation, and strategic leadership, supporting the transformation of India’s aviation ecosystem.

The award was presented by Dr. Neeraj Kharwal, Managing Director of ITPO, and was received by Shri Vipin Kumar, Chairman, AAI, on behalf of the organisation. The pavilion drew wide appreciation for its innovative use of technology, engaging visual storytelling, and its forward-looking portrayal of India’s expanding airport infrastructure and aviation services.

This achievement underscores AAI’s continued commitment to excellence, innovation, and the growth of India’s aviation sector. It stands as a proud moment for the organisation, reflecting the dedication and creativity of the entire AAI team in presenting a world-class experience at IITF 2025.

Currently serving as Regional Executive Director (Eastern Region), Nivedita Dubey has demonstrated exemplary leadership, administrative excellence, and a strong commitment to operational efficiency. Her extensive experience and people-centric vision are expected to drive progressive transformation across AAI’s HR landscape.

Her selection also marks a proud moment for women in leadership within India’s aviation sector. As one of the few women to rise to such a senior level in the industry, she continues to inspire future leaders through her dedication, professionalism, and determination to make a meaningful impact.

Once formally appointed, she will play a pivotal role in strengthening AAI’s human capital framework, focusing on talent development, employee engagement, and organizational growth.

Heartiest congratulations to Nivedita Dubey on this well-deserved recognition. Her leadership and vision are set to usher in a new era of innovation and excellence at the Airports Authority of India.

#Leadership #WomenInAviation #HumanResources #AAI #PESB #PublicSector #Inspiration #HRLeadership

Titled ‘Provision of technical expertise to review the national regulations related to height limitations around aerodromes’, this USD 321,400 project will be executed by #ICAO with AAI as the implementing agency. This initiative will further strengthen aviation safety while unlocking avenues for sustainable urban growth.