Charting the Flight Path for BRICS Nations

Charting the Flight Path for BRICS Nations

Charting the Flight Path for BRICS Nations

Mr. Vaibhav Varun

Managing Director 

Aviakul Private Limited

MEMBER, BRICS CCI

In your opinion, what are the key areas of focus that BRICS nations should prioritize to foster a more vibrant and sustainable aviation industry?

I would say BRICS nations must establish joint research initiatives to develop and localize aircraft components to reduce lead time and cargo costs. Improved air connectivity between BRICS countries shall directly encourage tourism, trade and people-to-people relationships.

What vision do you see for the Aviation industry in the coming time and how can BRICS CCI help you to achieve it, eliminating any hindrance?

It’s difficult to answer this in a few words but nevertheless, the aviation industry is slowly moving towards adopting green technologies such as SAFs, etc. We are continuously trying to integrate IoT to enhance operational efficiency for airlines as well as improve passenger experience. Having such a huge network of industry and academia connections, I would feel the biggest role of BRICS CCI would be to encourage knowledge sharing and Skill development for people in Aviation. Aviation, in general, is quite “global” in its structure and approach. That is where BRICS CCI can also encourage cross-border investments and harmonization of regulations. 

How do you envision the role of aviation in facilitating trade, tourism, and connectivity between BRICS nations?

One of the most vital roles of aviation would be in the sector of Cargo Transportation. Faster, cheaper and better logistics are the backbone of all import/export businesses. In terms of tourism: I would like to emphasize on a specific type of tourism: Medical Tourism. Aviation plays and will continue to play a big role in facilitating patients in between BRICS countries to seek treatment in their allied countries at reasonable costs.

What are your thoughts on the future of aviation in the context of BRICS cooperation and the global aviation landscape?

The Aviation Industry has not yet recovered from the economic crackdown of COVID-19. My immediate thoughts are towards bringing more and more investment in this sector. India has grown to be a massive player: especially in terms of the recent aircraft purchases that we have been making. It’s a very positive sign. This literally translates to increased demand for trained personnel, better infrastructure and efficiently managed airspace. It can only be achieved through the global cooperation of big OEMs, training centers and flying clubs.

How do you balance the economic and environmental aspects of the aviation industry, particularly with Aviation to sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions?

Balancing the economic and environmental aspects of the aviation industry is a complex challenge that requires a multifaceted approach. In any case, advancements such as blended wing designs, improved aerodynamics and lighter materials and can lead to reduced fuel consumption and emissions. But remember, it’s always a tricky balance! More and more people flying means the flight costs must be affordable as well: and that compromise in terms of keeping the aircraft in the air doesn’t go too well with being sustainable.

What steps have you taken to promote innovation and technological advancements within Aviakul, considering the rapidly evolving aviation industry?

We, at Aviakul, are the only aviation company to be recognized and awarded by U. P. Govt. for our initiative of GSAC: Global Sustainable Aviation Conclave. We have created a platform for stalwarts of the industry to come forth and innovate about various themes and topics in Sustainability in aviation. These kinds of discussions were uncommon with most conferences/seminars being mostly about business MROs in aviation. We hope that this will translate into greener technologies being adopted by the airlines and maintenance companies as well.

How has been your experience until now as a BRICS CCI member?

BRICS CCI has taken the right steps in encouraging cross-business opportunities. Often at times, my friends in the agriculture industry have taken our assistance for spraying via drones. It’s one such example of the diverse community that it fosters.

How do you see the BRICS nations collectively shaping global governance and promoting a multipolar world order?

Strictly speaking in the context of aviation- let’s face the hard truth: The entire aviation industry is largely dependent on the West. But the good news is: that BRICS nations collectively hold roughly 41% of the world’s entire population- which means our collective voice has the potential to play a significant role in shaping global governance and promoting a more multipolar world order. Our growing economic strength, commitment to South-South cooperation, and common interests in reforming international institutions make them influential actors in the evolving global landscape.