“Make in India” is certain to be a leitmotif at India Aviation 2016 — the fifth edition of this biennial international civil aviation exhibition and conference — which kicks off on 16th March at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad. The event, which is jointly organised by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, runs through Sunday 20th March.

Alongside the flying and static displays, highlights will include the 5th International Conference on Civil Aviation, on 17th March, focusing on India’s potential as a global manufacturing and MRO hub. The conference, which attracted 450 delegates in 2014, will focus on:

* reformulating aviation strategy for promoting regional & remote-area connectivity to unlock their potential for growth by supporting inward investment;

* addressing challenges facing the sector - high taxation regime, exorbitant airport charges, security & surveillance related issues, skill deficit, etc;

* highlighting the need for redesigning the regulatory landscape for the seamless growth;

* showcasing latest technologies, innovative ideas, best practices & partnership strategies followed globally in enhancing regional air connectivity.

Airbus Group, which announced the creation of Airbus India at the 2014 edition, plans to highlight its “Make in India” footprint at the show — a customer A350 XWB aircraft and a customer A380 aircraft will be on static display for part of the event.