India’s aviation sector is facing significant setbacks as 102 aircraft are currently grounded due to ongoing supply chain disruptions. Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, informed the Lok Sabha about these challenges on Thursday, highlighting the critical need for a robust domestic aircraft manufacturing ecosystem.
The grounding of these aircraft is primarily a result of delays in receiving spare parts and consumables, which have been severely impacted by the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic and recent geopolitical tensions. These disruptions have strained the availability of essential components required to maintain the airworthiness of aircraft. Murlidhar Mohol reassured the public that aircraft operating in India are regularly inspected to ensure compliance with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations. However, airlines are compelled to withdraw aircraft from service when spare parts from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are unavailable, contributing to the grounded fleet. Currently, 105 aircraft under the Scheduled Air Transport Service are classified as Aircraft on Ground (AOG), mainly due to supply chain challenges. The government is actively addressing these supply chain issues by promoting the development of a domestic aircraft manufacturing ecosystem. This initiative aims to encourage both public and private enterprises to manufacture regional transport aircraft and related components, reducing the reliance on foreign suppliers and mitigating future disruptions. As one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally, India is increasingly relying on its expanding fleet to meet growing demand for air travel. Establishing a robust domestic manufacturing industry will not only support the aviation sector’s growth but also enhance its resilience against future supply chain challenges, ensuring more reliable service for travelers across the country.