India takes flight: Hosts Asia Pacific accident investigation meet for first time

India is set to host the Asia Pacific Accident Investigation Group (APAC-AIG) meeting and workshop from October 28 to 31, 2025, marking a significant milestone as the country welcomes aviation experts from across the region for the first time. The four-day event, organized by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, will be inaugurated by Union Minister Shri Rammohan Naidu.

The APAC-AIG is a collaborative platform under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) that brings together aircraft accident investigation authorities from the Asia Pacific region to share expertise, best practices, and lessons learned. It aims to strengthen cooperation, improve investigation processes, and enhance aviation safety across member states.

Around 90 representatives from ICAO member states in the Asia Pacific region, along with experts from international organizations, are expected to participate. The annual APAC-AIG meeting provides a platform for exchanging knowledge and promoting high standards in accident investigation and reporting.

The event will begin with a two-day workshop on October 28 and 29, covering technical and procedural aspects of aircraft accident investigations. Officials from AAIB, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and international participants will exchange insights on investigation processes, reporting standards, and emerging practices in aviation safety.

Following the workshop, formal discussions will take place on October 30 and 31, where representatives from member states and AAIB officials will deliberate on strategies to strengthen regional cooperation, enhance expertise, and ensure that lessons from past accidents are effectively applied to improve aviation safety standards.

Hosting the APAC-AIG meeting underscores India’s growing role in regional aviation safety and highlights its commitment to fostering collaboration and capacity-building in aircraft accident investigations across the Asia Pacific.