Infrastructure & Industry

Aviation & Ground Handling

The Indian aviation industry has remarkably reclaimed itself from the Covid-19 era and is now among the fastest growing aviation markets in the world, with air passenger traffic projected to make India one of the largest aviation markets by 2030. On the investment front, the Government of India has earmarked US$ 1.83 billion for airport infrastructure and aviation navigation services by 2026, reflecting a strong policy push towards modernization, capacity expansion, and global competitiveness.

Aviation & Ground Handling

Against this backdrop, we are strategically positioned to support clients in navigating regulatory challenges and transactional complexities in this sector.

Our Team and Approach

Our Aviation practice is led by a dedicated team of advocates, with multidisciplinary support from our Regulatory, Corporate & Litigation practices. This structure enables us to deliver solution-driven and innovative services that address the diverse needs of stakeholders in the aviation ecosystem. Our lawyers combine technical knowledge of aviation law with commercial pragmatism, making us adept at handling transactional structuring, lease and licensing documentation, business operations advisory, employment and HR frameworks, corporate governance, dispute resolution, and regulatory compliance.

Applicable Laws & Regulatory Framework

Governing safety, operations, and airworthiness.

Covering airport development, aeronautical charges, slot allocation, and concessions.

Noise, emission, and environmental obligations.

International operations, code sharing, and global standards.

Operational standards, licensing, and compliance mandates.

Licensing and compliance requirements for ground handling entities.

Governing cross-border leasing, FDI, and financial structuring.

Regulatory & Statutory Authorities

Licensing, safety, and operational compliance.

Slot allocation, airport use agreements, and aeronautical charges.

Aviation imports, logistics, and tax compliance.

Policy-making, concessions, and strategic clearances.

Security clearances for airlines, airports, and ground handling.

Licensing & Approvals

  • Air Operator's Permit (AOP) / Non-Scheduled Operator's Permit (NSOP)
  • Ground Handling Agency (GHA) License under DGCA/AAI norms
  • Security Clearances from BCAS / MHA
  • Environmental Clearances for cargo and ground operations
  • FEMA / RBI approvals for foreign leasing and investment

Frequently Asked Questions

We start with a scoping consultation to understand your business model, current regulatory posture, and immediate priorities — then propose a tailored engagement rather than a one-size-fits-all package.

Yes. Our clients range from early-stage startups navigating their first licensing requirements through to established operators and multinational investors. We scale our advisory to the client's stage and scale.

Yes, representation before Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other applicable regulators is part of our practice in this sector, alongside the advisory and transactional work outlined above.

Yes — our sector teams combine regulatory advisory with litigation and dispute resolution capability, so clients have continuity of counsel if a compliance matter escalates into a contentious one.

Source: ibef.org/industry/indian-aviation

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