India Secures Fresh Tenure in ICAO Council

India’s Re-election

India Secures Fresh Tenure in ICAO Council: India has been re-elected to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council for the 2025–2028 term. The voting took place on 27 September 2025 during the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada. India secured higher votes compared to the 2022 election, highlighting stronger trust from member nations. This success affirms India’s rising influence in the aviation sector globally.

ICAO and Election Structure

ICAO is a specialised UN agency created in 1944 under the Chicago Convention to regulate international civil aviation. The Assembly, held once every three years, elects a 36-member Council. The Council is divided into three parts, with Part II representing states that contribute significantly to air navigation facilities.
Static GK fact: ICAO has 193 member states and its headquarters is in Montreal, Canada.

India’s Longstanding Role

India has been a founding member of ICAO and has served on the Council for 81 consecutive years. Its continuous presence highlights the strategic importance of Indian civil aviation to the global community.
Static GK fact: India signed the Chicago Convention on 1 March 1947 and has maintained uninterrupted participation in ICAO’s decision-making.

Diplomatic Campaign for 2025 Elections

In the run-up to the elections, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of External Affairs engaged in proactive diplomacy. A special reception was hosted in New Delhi for ambassadors and high commissioners. Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu personally sought support from key nations. India’s permanent representative at ICAO headquarters also lobbied effectively, while bilateral meetings in Montreal further strengthened India’s candidature.

India’s Aviation Growth

India is one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world. It is emerging as a hub for aircraft component manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, and aviation skill development. India actively contributes to ICAO’s objectives of safe, secure, sustainable, and gender-inclusive aviation.
Static GK Tip: India is projected to become the third-largest aviation market globally by 2030, after the United States and China.

Focus Areas for 2025–2028 Term

During its renewed tenure, India will prioritise:

• Aviation safety and security enhancements across regions
• Promotion of sustainable and equitable air connectivity
• Technological innovations in civil aviation
• Strong backing for ICAO’s No Country Left Behind initiative, which assists developing nations in improving aviation capacity

Strategic Significance

India’s re-election ensures its voice in global aviation governance. It reflects the global community’s confidence in India’s ability to shape policies in line with international standards. This position enables India to safeguard its aviation interests while also contributing to equitable development of global air transport.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

India Secures Fresh Tenure in ICAO Council: