Build airports, but fuel them right

With India emerging as the fourth-largest economy globally, its travel and tourism sector is poised to become a key economic driver. Julia Simpson, President & CEO, WTTC, outlines how India’s infrastructure growth can shape the industry’s future.

Janice Alyosius

For India to fully capitalise on its tourism growth momentum, infrastructure remains key, claims Julia Simpson, President & CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Speaking at her recent visit to the country, she said, India’s tourism industry is in an upward trajectory and poised to play a greater role in the country’s economic development. She pressed on the urgent need for strategic policy interventions. “India is now the fourth largest economy in the world, which is incredible. Its strong tourism sector currently represents just shy of 7 per cent of India’s economy and over the next few years, it will grow to almost 10 per cent,” she said. However, she added, for India to fully capitalise on this momentum and infrastructure remains key. “Some of the policies like expanding international airports from over 160 to 200, growing the high-speed rail network and improving roads are really significant. If new destinations are to be opened, this investment is essential,” she elaborated.

Simpson said India must enhance seamless digital travel. She also suggested for incentivising domestic production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

“We need the Indian government to incentivise the local production of SAF. There is no point in Air India or IndiGo buying SAF abroad and flying it into India. The country has an opportunity to lead in sustainable travel,” she concluded.