| 2023年2月28日 - 2023年3月1日 |
Morgan Lewis is proud to sponsor Airline Economics’ Growth Frontiers Global India conference—one of the largest meeting places for participants in the global aviation industry. Partner Sidanth Rajagopal moderated the Indian & International Market Panel and the Commercial Aircraft Manufacturer Panel, and of counsel Sourabh Bhattacharya moderated the Lessor Panel.
Our team arrived in force with partner Sidanth Rajagopal, of counsel Sourabh Bhattacharya, and associate Kevin Pearson, representing our global aviation practice at the inaugural Airline Economics conference in India. With the recent order by an Indian airline, this event could not have been at a better time to discuss the opportunities in this market.
Sid moderated the first panel on Indian airlines in 2023 and beyond. The panel discussed challenges such as Kingfisher Airlines’ legacy, the difficult operating environment for aircraft, and the need for more infrastructure. All the panelists agreed that India, with its strong GDP growth, huge population, and growing middle class, cannot be ignored.
After a short break, Sourabh stepped up to moderate a panel of leasing companies to get their take on India’s future. The lessors were very optimistic about their opportunities going forward, but noted there is an issue with accessing finance for Indian carriers.
It was a recurring theme throughout the conference that the rising interest rates, foreign exchange fluctuations, and high operating costs—including fuel taxes and shortage of slots—are factors that need to be addressed for the aviation market to realize its full potential.
Later, Sid once again acted as moderator for a panel of aircraft manufacturers, together discussing the enormous growth opportunities they see for India.
As the first day ended, our team enjoyed the opportunity to connect with clients and attendees in and around the conference center.
The second day focused on the financing structures available to Indian carriers, analyzing the risks, benefits, and feasibility of non-payment insurance; Japanese operating lease with call option (JOLCO) financing; enhanced equipment trust certificates (EETC); and sale and leaseback structures.
Now that the conference has ended, we reflect on the positivity shown by the delegates and look forward to becoming a regular fixture at this gathering. Morgan Lewis is proud to have sponsored the 2023 conference, and we relished the opportunity to meet with clients, partners, and friends.