India’s Re-election to ICAO Council: Strengthening Aviation Diplomacy Amidst Global Challenges

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialized United Nations agency responsible for setting global standards and regulations for civil aviation safety, security, environmental protection, and efficiency. ICAO’s Council, divided into Part I and Part II members, acts as the governing body steering international civil aviation policy.

India’s re-election to Part II of the ICAO Council for the 2025–2028 term is a recognition of its active role in international aviation diplomacy. This membership enables India to influence crucial decisions on:

Global aviation safety and security standards, ensuring seamless international operations.

Environmental norms and emission standards, critical in the wake of growing climate concerns associated with air travel.

Coordination of international air navigation and connectivity policies that shape global air transport networks.

India’s Agenda at ICAO: Driving Sustainable Growth and Connectivity

Sustainable Aviation and Emission Norms

India aims to push for more ambitious aviation emission reduction targets, including adoption of green aviation fuels (SAF), energy efficiency measures, and achieving net-zero carbon emissions in alignment with the country’s broader climate commitments.

Enhancing Global Connectivity

India is seeking expanded open skies agreements and facilitation of market access for Indian carriers to enhance connectivity, boost tourism, trade, and economic integration. This includes advocating for fair bilateral air service agreements and liberalized air traffic rights.

Capacity Building and Technical Assistance

A key part of India’s vision involves providing technical assistance and capacity building support to less developed countries, especially in the South Asian and African regions. This includes helping improve aviation infrastructure, safety oversight, and human resource development in line with ICAO’s universal safety and security standards.

Challenges India Faces in ICAO Engagement

Balancing Emissions Commitments and Aviation Growth

India confronts the difficult task of balancing its aviation sector’s rapid growth—projected to be among the fastest globally—with its climate goals. Negotiating realistic yet effective emission reduction timelines in a multilateral setting is complex.

Multilateral Negotiation Complexities

ICAO decisions are often based on consensus-building among 193 member states, leading to slow progress. Diverse economic priorities and developmental stages complicate negotiations on environmental and operational standards.

Domestic Constraints

India’s ambitions at the international level are tempered by domestic infrastructure bottlenecks, including congested airports, limited runway capacity, and challenges in air traffic management. Enhancing safety oversight and regulatory compliance remains critical to maintain credibility on the global stage.

Conclusion: Navigating Aviation Diplomacy for Strategic Gains

India’s renewed seat on the ICAO Council provides a platform to assert leadership in global aviation governance. Leveraging this position requires proactive diplomacy, advancing sustainability, fostering inclusive connectivity, and simultaneously addressing domestic aviation challenges. Effective engagement in ICAO will be pivotal to supporting India’s vision of becoming a global aviation hub while aligning with international environmental and safety norms.