To maintain a competitive civil aviation environment which ensures safety and security in accordance with international standards, promotes efficient, cost-effective and orderly growth of air transport and contributes to social and economic development of the country

The objectives of this policy are the creation and continued facilitation of a competitive and service-oriented civil aviation environment in which:

The interests of the users of civil aviation are the guiding force behind all decisions, systems and arrangements,

safe, efficient , reliable and widespread quality air transport services are provided at reasonable prices,

there exists a well-defined regulatory framework catering to changing needs and circumstances,

all players and stakeholders are assured of a levelplaying field;

private participation is encouraged and opportunities created for investors to realize adequate returns on their investments;

recognizing that aviation today is an important element of infrastructure, rapid upgradation of airport infrastructure to world class with priority to the busiest airports and those handling international flights;

recognizing that transportation of air cargo is vital to the economic growth of the country, creation and development of specific infrastructure for air transportation of cargo and express cargo is encouraged,

"Airline operations and acquisition of aircraft" is conferred "infrastructure" status for overall growth of civil aviation sector in the country

Domestic and international aviation in the country are encouraged to grow at par with world aviation industry;

inter-linkages with other modes of transport are encouraged and stimulated;

trade, tourism and overall economic activity and growth is encouraged;

international cooperation in aviation and development in tune with international trends and best practices, consistent with airspace sovereignty is promoted;

indigenous development of aircraft, components and aviation products is encouraged,

Security of civil aviation operations is ensured through appropriate systems, policies, and practices, and

Effective systems are put in place for timely crisis and disaster management, including investigation of incidents/accidents.

The success of any policy depends upon the benefits it gives to the various users. A constant interaction with and amongst all categories of users is paramount for successful implementation of and constant improvement in the policy. There is an urgent need for an institutional arrangement at different levels for such interaction.

Therefore, Facilitation Committees consisting of representatives of various users of civil aviation sector i.e. government, passengers, tour and travel operators, aircraft-operators, airport-operators, exporters and importers, cargo handling agents, aerosports, Flying Clubs, etc. will be set up at national, regional and local levels to ensure that the interests of ultimate users are best safeguarded. There will be regular monitoring and feedback between the Facilitation Committees of national regional and local levels. There will be mandatory prior consultation with these Facilitation Committees before amendments in policy/ rules / regulations are undertaken.

Highest priority will be accorded to the passengers/ users and suitable mechanisms will be set up for this purpose, including publication of Citizens' Charters and effective action for, and monitoring of, grievance redressal.