Letter from Editor

Flying is a heady experience and aviation a flourishing business in India. Reporting on the aviation industry, on the other hand, calls for serious introspection. Both, however, are not without some element of thrill and thunder. Capturing the current environment of rapid transition powered by high expectations and booming economy, the team at Guide Publication brings you SP’s Airbuz—a unique effort to showcase the phenomenal growth of the civil aviation industry. However, behind all the glamour there is an industry that is constantly battling daunting challenges and struggling to cope with explosive demand for air travel despite severe constraints.

Debuts are invariably characterised by a distinct flavour. We, at SP’s, appreciate this and have worked to bring you an all-encompassing scenario incorporating news, views, reviews and in-depth analyses of the developments and distinctions that have made headlines in the aviation sector. In this inaugural issue, the cover story provides a comprehensive picture of the state of civil aviation in the country. While A.K. Sachdev delves into the Budget 2008 searching in vain for the minutest trace of relief or solace for the civil aviation industry under pressure of rising input costs, Arvind Oak highlights the opportunities for the industry in the regime of flight simulators dominated by a handful of foreign players. R. Srinivasan looks at the MRO scene in India and Joseph Noronha illustrates why it might be prudent and affordable to patronise air charters, especially the VLJ as opposed to regular airlines. Dr Ram Pattisapu, a surgeon turned aviator NRI from the US and President of Aircraft Owners` and Pilots` Association (AOPA), India, highlights the potential for growth of General Aviation in the country. This is an area wherein archaic rules and bureaucratic mindsets have proved to be major impediments.

What better time than now to launch a journal on India’s buzzing, booming aviation sector. Come, hop on and let’s fly!