CII study envisions Bangalore as global aerospace hub

CII study envisions Bangalore as global aerospace hub
Deccan Herald

The State is set to emerge as a global aerospace hub with the potential for an all-inclusive growth in the sector, according to a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) study.

The study, ‘Vision 2015 Karnataka - A Global Aerospace Hub’, which was released at the annual meet of CII, Karnataka, here on Friday, indicated the State not only had a 67-year history in aviation manufacturing sector, but also enjoyed the status of being a natural destination for aviation majors in view of its intrinsic strength in the field.

Major players in the sector – Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), DRDO laboratories and a host of major IT companies in aerospace sector – have a significant presence in the City to fuel growth, the report said.

It added that European aviation major EADS will soon set up its technology centre in Bangalore for engineering services, software and technical publications.

The study said Bangalore is capable of providing design and development besides simulation, prototyping, reengineering and maintenance and testing services. Other areas suitable for outsourcing include navigation systems, air control management systems, high-level aeronautical system design, control system design, cockpit equipment support software, interior design and ergonomics.

“Most of the global aerospace firms are looking at India as an outsourcing hub for development of technology,” it said.

It also suggested steps to give the much-needed push by setting up ITIs specific to the needs of aerospace industry based on publi-private partnership model, introduction of diploma courses in aerospace engineering, establishment of pilot training schools and establishing an aviation university.

Boost for tier-II cities

With the aviation boom in Bangalore is likely to saturate, the situation demands for development of tier-II cities like Mysore, Belgaum, Hubli and Mangalore for supporting growth of aerospace industries, the report said. It called for steps from the State government to sustain and develop the existing competence in aerospace and defence industries.

Earlier, CII Vice-Chairman A K Saxena said the Indian aerospace industry is likely to cross the $100-billion mark by 2017, making it an important player in the global aerospace market comprising military, civil and space.

“India will assume a significant role in the growth of aerospace technologies in the coming years,” he said.