WORKING AGENDA DAY 1
April 11, 2025 [Friday]
1st INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON AVIATION LAW
Programme accurate as on 10 April 2025
09:00 – 10:00
Registration & Tea
10:00 – 11:15
Auditorium
Opening Ceremony
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Inaugural Address: Prof. (Dr.) G.S. Bajpai, Vice Chancellor, National Law University Delhi
Opening Remarks: Shri. Vaibhav Varun, Managing Director, Aviakul Group of Companies
Address by the Chief Guest: Hon’ble Mr. Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra, Supreme Court of India
Vote of Thanks: Prof. (Dr.) Ruhi Paul, Registrar, National Law University Delhi
11:15 – 12:15
Auditorium
[PA-01] Panel Discussion
Regulatory Landscape of Aviation - Challenges and Opportunities
The panel discussion on Regulatory Landscape of Aviation – Challenges and Opportunities will delve into the evolving regulatory framework of aviation, addressing the complexities of compliance while fostering industry growth and innovation. As India moves ahead with the landmark enactments Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024 and Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill 2025, the panel will deliberate on the changing dimensions of this field in India. The session will also examine the Cape Town Convention’s role in harmonizing global regulations, and the impact of digital transformation on compliance. As aviation undergoes rapid transformation driven by the sustainability mandates, AI, drones, and electric aircraft, regulatory frameworks must adapt to emerging challenges like - cybersecurity threats, antitrust concerns, and consumer protection laws. Additionally, global regulatory inconsistencies create operational hurdles, while sustainability initiatives like CORSIA and the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) require a delicate balance between compliance and economic viability. Issue of passenger liability is also key to this discussion.
The Panel will address key concerns: How are the news laws in India today helping the aviation sector to grow? How can regulators harmonize the global aviation laws to reduce operational barriers? How do regulators respond to the shifting consumer preferences? How can regulators and industry stakeholders collaborate to create adaptive policies that encourage innovation while maintaining safety and compliance? How has the liability towards passengers evolved? This session aims to explore the new laws and future of aviation regulations that can balance industry growth with stringent safety and sustainability standards. ​
Moderator:
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Shri. Ajay Kumar, Managing Partner, KLA Legal Advocates and Solicitors
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Panellists:
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Shri. Ajay Kharbanda, Chief Legal Officer, GMR Airports Limited (North and West Sector)
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Prof. (Dr.) G. S. Sachdeva, Professor Emeritus, Chandigarh University, Punjab and Adjunct Professor, NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad
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Prof. (Dr.) Sandeepa Bhat, Professor of Law and Director of Centre for Aviation and Space Laws, National University of Juridical Sciences, Kolkata
12:15 – 13:15
Auditorium
[PA-02] Panel Discussion
India 2047: A Global Aviation Leasing Hub
The panel discussion on India 2047: A Global Aviation Leasing Hub will explore India’s vision to establish itself as a leading player in aircraft leasing, with Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) at the forefront. Significant progress has been made in Indian aviation ecosystem, with over 33 leasing entities established, India’s first bank-led aircraft financing deal, and the enactment of the Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects (PIAO) Bill, 2025. However, challenges such as taxation complexities, legal enforcement issues, and limited financing access persist. With the right framework, India can reduce dependency on foreign lessors, boost airline profitability, and strengthen its position in global aviation finance. Further, with India’s fleet expected to grow to 1,500 aircraft by 2030, a structured leasing framework is essential.
The panel will explore regulatory frameworks, investment incentives, and the challenges in establishing India as a competitive international financial hub. The panel will explore critical issues, including: Which tax reforms and incentives are needed to attract investors? How can legal enforcement be strengthened to protect lessors? What role should Indian banks play in mitigating financial risks in leasing? What global best practices can India adopt? This session aims to provide actionable insights and a strategic roadmap for positioning India as a dominant force in global aircraft leasing by 2047.
Moderator:
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Shri. Vinamra Longani, Vice President Commercial, SGI Aviation
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Panellists:
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Dr. Akhil Prasad, Board Member, Group General Counsel, Company Secretary, Boeing India
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Smt. Ankita Kumar, Partner, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co.
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Shri. Rishiraj Baruah, Senior Associate, AZB and Partners
13:15 – 14:30
LUNCH
14:30 – 15:30
Auditorium
[PA-03] Panel Discussion
Gendered Skies: Addressing Gender Disparity in Aviation [In collaboration with Women’s Collective Forum]
The Panel Discussion on Gendered Skies: Addressing Gender Disparity in Aviation organized in collaboration with Women's Collective Forum will explore the persistent gender disparity in aviation despite global diversity initiatives. This panel, featuring industry leaders, policymakers, and advocates in collaboration with the Women’s Collective Forum, will explore the barriers women face in aviation and strategies for fostering inclusivity Though efforts like IATA’s “25 by 2025” initiative and DGCA’s advisory circular seek to improve gender diversity. Legal frameworks like ILO Convention No. 190 and ICAO’s Gender Equality Programme offer policy mechanisms, while Airlines implement gender-neutral uniforms, and women-only seating. However, reports indicate that, globally, women hold less than 20% of aviation roles, with only 4% of pilots being female, while 86% of cabin crew positions are occupied by women, highlighting a stark imbalance, which is largely due to gaps in policy retention and enforcement. Despite significant progress, gender disparity remains a challenge in the aviation industry, from pilots and engineers to leadership roles. Discussions will cover recruitment policies, mentorship programs, workplace equity, and the importance of representation in decision-making roles.
The panel will address key concerns: How effectively are existing legal frameworks enforced to ensure gender equality in aviation? Which policies can better support women in technical and leadership roles? How can the regulators hold airlines accountable for gender diversity targets? This panel aims to spark actionable discussions on closing the gender gap and creating a truly inclusive aviation industry.
Moderator:
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Smt. Richa Sharma, Chief Community Officer, Women’s Collective Forum
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Panellists:
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Dr. Andrea Trimarchi, Aviation Lawyer and Consultant, Research Fellow, Aviation, Space and Transportation Law, University of Bologna, Italy
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Smt. Poonam Chawla, Senior Aviation Journalist, Associate Publisher, Air Cargo Update, Founder, Women Board of Directors.
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Smt. Riya Soni, MT-Legal, GMR Airports Limited
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Smt. Sunita Dutta, Indian Women Pilots' Association, Delhi Chapter, Advocate, Supreme Court of India
15:30 – 17:00
Auditorium
[Parallel]
[SS-01] Speaker Session & Paper Presentation
Gendered Skies: Addressing Gender Disparity in Aviation
Sustainable Aviation: Legal and Regulatory Pathways to a Greener Future
The Speaker Session & Paper Presentation: Sustainable Aviation – Legal and Regulatory Pathways to a Greener Future will explore the evolving regulatory landscape aiming at reducing aviation’s environmental impact. With the industry contributing 2-3% of global COâ‚‚ emissions and passenger traffic expected to reach 8.2 billion by 2037, robust legal frameworks are essential for a sustainable transition. The speaker will examine global initiatives such as ICAO’s CORSIA, the EU’s ReFuelEU Aviation Initiative, and India’s National Policy on Biofuels. Along with sustainability the session will also explore how emerging aviation technologies intersect with evolving legal frameworks.
The speakers will address key concerns: How can global regulators unify SAF certification and emission reporting? What legal mechanisms ensure transparency in the carbon offsetting? Which incentives can accelerate hydrogen and electric propulsion investments? How can India enhance aviation sustainability while addressing infrastructure and economic constraints? The session aims to explore legal and regulatory pathways for achieving sustainable aviation through policy innovation, enforcement mechanisms, and industry collaboration. It will also explore the legal and regulatory adaptations necessary to support emerging aviation technologies while ensuring safety, compliance, and sustainability.
15:30 – 17:00
Samvad
Academic
Block Room 406 [Parallel]
[SS-02] Speaker Session & Paper Presentation
Speakers:
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Shri. Adithya Variath, Elizabeth Moir Scholar at the Oxford India Centre for Sustainable Development, University of Oxford, Research Fellow, ISLC, University of Milan, Italy
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Shri. Saksham Bhardwaj, Advocate, Delhi
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Dr. Siddharth Singh, Assistant Professor, School of Law, Bennett University
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Shri. Subhash Bhutoria, Lawyer, Arbitrator and IP Attorney, Founder and Principal, Law SB
International Arbitration, Investment & Leasing in Aviation: Laws and Competencies
The Speaker Session & Paper Presentation on International Arbitration in Aviation will focus on arbitration as a crucial tool for resolving aviation disputes in an industry defined by cross-border operations and complex regulations. The international arbitration in aviation is often faced with jurisdictional challenges, and enforcement issues. The discussion will highlight the role of institutions like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in shaping arbitration practices. The panel will also feature expert discussions and research presentations on key legal aspects of aircraft leasing, including contract structuring, taxation policies, and compliance with international conventions. Speakers will also explore investment laws governing aviation finance, risk mitigation strategies, and India’s evolving legal landscape for leasing companies.
The speakers will examine critical aspects: How effective are arbitration frameworks like the New York Convention in aviation disputes? Which are the primary jurisdictional challenges, and how can they be mitigated? Which competencies should arbitrators possess for handling aviation disputes? How can technology enhance arbitration processes and enforcement mechanisms? The session aims to provide insights into strengthening international arbitration frameworks to enhance efficiency, enforcement, and dispute resolution in aviation
15:30 – 17:00
Vimarsh
Academic Block
Room 506
[Parallel]
[SS-03] Speaker Session & Paper Presentation
Speakers:
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Shri. Ashutosh Agarwal, Associate, RNC Legal (Rajinder Narain & Co.), Solicitors & Advocates
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Capt. Gunjit Tripathi, Captain, Boeing 787 Dreamliner
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Dr. Jing Bian, Senior Lecturer, Financial Law; Postgraduate Hub Lead, University of Greenwich, United Kingdom
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Dr. Masrur Salekin, Additional Metropolitan Sessions Judge, Bangladesh, Dhaka and Vice-President, Bangladesh Judicial Service Association, PhD in Law, University of Galway, Ireland
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Prof. Paul Ng, Partner and Head- Aviation Practice, Rajah & Tann LLP Asia; Adjunct Professor, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Shri. Vishok Mansingh, Chief Executive Officer, Vman
Future Of Air Law: Domestic and Global Landscape
The Speaker Session & Paper Presentation on the Future of Air Law: Domestic and Global Landscape will critically examine the legal and regulatory developments shaping the aviation sector, with a particular focus on air safety, economic regulation, consumer rights, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The enactment of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024, marks a significant shift in India’s aviation governance, introducing comprehensive reforms aimed at enhancing regulatory efficiency, streamlining compliance, and strengthening passenger protections. This session will evaluate the Act’s effectiveness in addressing existing legal challenges while aligning India’s aviation framework with international best practices. Additionally, the panel will examine how legal frameworks are evolving to address jurisdictional challenges in cross-border disputes, the enforcement of international agreements, and the growing complexity of airline liability cases. As consumer rights gain prominence, regulatory bodies face mounting pressure to enhance compensation frameworks, passenger protection laws, and mechanisms for resolving disputes arising from delays, cancellations, and service disruptions.
The panel will address: How effectively does the aviation law enhance air safety, streamline compliance, and strengthen consumer protections? What legal measures are needed to improve cross-border dispute resolution in aviation contracts and liability cases? How can economic regulations ensure market competitiveness while balancing airline profitability and passenger rights? The panel aims to provide a comprehensive legal analysis of the evolving air law landscape, focusing on regulatory reforms that safeguard industry growth while ensuring compliance, consumer protection, and equitable dispute resolution mechanisms.
15:30 – 17:00
Old Meeting Room
Academic Block
[Parallel]
[SS-04] Speaker Session & Paper Presentation
Speakers:
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Shri. Ashwani Dwivedi, Young Professional (Legal), Ministry of Civil Aviation
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Smt. Chrystel Erotokritou, Compliance Manager (Aerospace), London UK
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Smt. Divisha Mehta, Senior Manager & Legal Counsel, Akasa Air
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Smt. Sofia Stellatou, Regulatory Consultant on the Regulatory Strategy & Market Access Team, Access Partnership, UK
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Shri. Vikrant Pachnanda, Advocate on Record, Supreme Court of India
17:00 – 17:30
Closing Remarks
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Dr. Garima Tiwari, Convenor, ICAL 2025; Associate Professor, National Law University Delhi
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Dr. Kheinkor Lamarr, Co-Convenor, ICAL 2025; Assistant Professor, National Law University Delhi