Wednesday 28 May, 2008

NSW Premier Morris Iemma today welcomed the Hon. Sri Praful Patel, Minister for Civil Aviation in India, to Sydney to discuss ways to further strengthen ties between NSW and India in the aviation sector.

“I met with Mr Patel during my visit to India last year, and I am delighted to welcome him to NSW,” Mr Iemma said.

“This visit highlighted the many areas of potential trade and investment links between NSW and India including opportunities in the aviation sector.

“The Indian civil aviation market is on a high growth trajectory – growing at a rate of 18 per cent annually – and holds out greater promise for potential investors.”

Mr Iemma said Australia was a leading supplier of airport infrastructure to the world.

“Australia has developed world-class expertise through the development and adoption of airport solutions and supporting engineering capabilities and technologies for a unique geography and diverse local conditions.

“In term of employee productivity, aeronautical developments, staff and operating costs; Sydney and Australia’s other international airports rated among the highest in the world.

“There are more than 260 licensed airports in Australia. Of these, 12 are operated as international airports servicing scheduled international airlines.

“Sydney has Australia’s busiest international airport accounting for 44 per cent of Australia’s international aircraft movements and 46 per cent of international air passenger movements.

“In 2007, a record 31 million domestic and international passengers travelled through Sydney airport.

“Our TAFE and Universities also provide courses in aircraft maintenance, avionics, aeroskills, commercial airline pilot training and coursework programs in aviation management.

“We are committed and look forward to participating in the development of the aviation sector in India,” Mr Iemma said.

No related posts.