Bengaluru: IAS officer explains Karnataka’s prospects in Civil Aviation

Gaurav Gupta, Additional IAS Secretary for the State of Karnataka explained the status of civil aviation in Karnataka and the projects that are currently lined up in a roadshow to promote WINGS INDIA 2024 in the Lalit Ashok hotel. “Bengaluru holds a special place in civil aviation. This is not only in terms of research but in terms of manufacturing as well. This is why the Aero India is held every year in Bengaluru. Captain Gopinath galvanised the sector of Civil Aviation by starting Air Deccan. Currently the Government of Karnataka is investing in airport infrastructure,” he stated. 

He enlisted a number of projects and initiatives at different stages of development undertaken by the government of Karnataka. “Number of green-field airports are being built with the state government taking care of issues such as construction and procurement of land. Flights to the Shivamogga airport that was inaugurated in February have an occupancy rate of 80%. 7 to 8 more airports are on the anvil. The Bijapur airport is the first in line and the procurement of certifications is underway. With last mile connectivity aviation can transform the growth and development of this country. The government has taken up the cause of heliports and miniature air-strips as well,” he mentioned. 

 He discussed various innovations that are being explored. “A draft of the civil aviation policy is ready. Proposals for 6-seater to 50-seater aircrafts are being discussed with organisations such as the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL). Vertical take-off and landing machines will enable the functioning of air-taxis in urban areas. These machines would reduce the price of trips by Rs 2000 to Rs 3000 and also help deal with the issue of traffic congestion. Many American companies have been given space to operate their aircrafts,” he added.