7th Helicopter & Small Aircraft Summit Held in Pune, Focus on Safety and Innovation
The 7th Helicopter & Small Aircraft Summit was held in Pune on June 24, 2025, jointly organized by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Government of Maharashtra, Pawan Hans, and FICCI. The event was chaired by Union Civil Aviation Minister Shri Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu with Minister of State Shri Murlidhar Mohol as Guest of Honour.
In his keynote address, Shri Rammohan Naidu shared his vision to integrate helicopters and small aircraft into a modern and inclusive aviation framework. He announced the creation of a dedicated Helicopter Directorate under DGCA to streamline regulatory oversight and support helicopter operators with safety, certification, and procedural clearances.
He highlighted digital tools such as the Heli Sewa Portal, which simplify processes like slot allocation and route approvals. He also stressed the importance of safety, transparent communication, and discipline in the aviation industry, especially for pilgrimage operations.
The Minister emphasized that helicopters and small aircraft are vital to achieving the goals of Viksit Bharat 2047 by transforming regional connectivity and economic growth.
Minister of State Shri Murlidhar Mohol spoke about green fuels, eVTOLs, and India’s push for Atmanirbhar aviation through training programs for pilots, technicians, and drone operators. He also outlined plans to expand Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) in remote areas.
DGCA Director General Shri Faiz Ahmed Kidwai underscored the need for safety, compliance, and tapping the potential of rotary and small-wing operations. The summit featured participation from 20 state governments, NDMA, GIFT City’s IFSCA, industry leaders, and regulators like AAI and Pawan Hans Ltd.
Technical sessions explored DGCA safety norms, financing opportunities via IFSCA, and seaplane operations under RCS-UDAN 5.5. UDAN 5.1 helicopter routes were also awarded during the summit.
The event marked a milestone in shaping India’s vision for accessible, safe, and sustainable regional aviation.
Source: PIB
