The Department of Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation have signed a new and modernized Air Services Agreement.

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The move opens the market for competition where multiple airlines can operate and more flights can be flown to spur air connectivity for both countries, according to DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade.

India is one of the largest aviation markets in the world, with Indian travellers' spending estimated at $ 136 billion in 2021.

In 2018, the two countries amended their 1949 PH-India Air Services Agreement and signed a new pact.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines approved changes proposed in 2020.

The 2021 agreement promotes international air services between India and the Philippines, advances quality international aviation system, and ensures the highest degree of air safety.

"It will not just be limited to a bilateral air agreement, it goes far and beyond aviation," Tugade elaborated.

"It will encompass other forms of business and economic activity in this country.”

“This is a critical enabler of the partnership, whether it may be in terms of people-to-people contacts, trade and investments, tourism, and culture interactions," added Indian Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Shambu Kumaran.

“It is my hope that this new Air Services Agreement will ensure the highest degree of safety and security in international air travel between the Philippines and India,” Philippine Ambassador to India Nathaniel Imperial concluded.

#INDIAN AVIATION MARKET

New PH-India Air Agreement signed