Advancing the aircraft leasing ecosystem in India
The knowledge paper titled “Advancing the Aircraft Leasing Ecosystem in India – From Reforms to Powering Future Growth” provides an overview of India’s expanding aviation market and the growing role of aircraft leasing in supporting fleet expansion. The report highlights the development of GIFT IFSC as India’s aircraft leasing and financing hub, key fiscal, legal and regulatory reforms undertaken by the Government of India and IFSCA, landmark leasing transactions and measures aimed at strengthening creditor confidence and global competitiveness. It also outlines the future growth potential of India’s aviation finance ecosystem and the long-term vision of positioning GIFT IFSC as a globally competitive aircraft leasing destination aligned with Viksit Bharat @ 2047
Key Takeaways
- India’s commercial aircraft fleet is projected to expand significantly, creating an estimated USD 50 billion opportunity for the aircraft leasing ecosystem over the next decade.
- Landmark reforms such as the Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects (PIAO) Act, 2025 and continued regulatory and tax reforms were widely appreciated by stakeholders for strengthening investor confidence and ease of doing business.
- Major announcements by leading Indian airlines and industry stakeholders reflected the growing adoption of GIFT IFSC for aircraft leasing and financing activities.
- Discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening domestic financing capabilities, developing long-term funding mechanisms, and enhancing regulatory and tax certainty for the sector.
- The Summit also witnessed engaging plenary discussions and focused sessions on strengthening aircraft leasing and aviation financing ecosystems in GIFT IFSC, with participation from key stakeholders across the aviation value chain.