The Emirates Group and its partner, flydubai have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (Mou) with the Andhra Pradesh government’s Economic Development Board (APEDB) to invest in the state’s aviation sector.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum said, “The Emirates Group is committed to future investment and expansion in support of India’s 2020 goal to be the world’s third largest aviation market.” Currently, the UK is the world’s third largest aviation market, after China and the US.

He adds, “We recognise that airlines have a major role to play as facilitators of economic and industrial growth, and strategic partnerships such as this are very important to achieve that. Through this agreement, Emirates and flydubai will work closely with APEDB to share expertise, discuss opportunities, enhance and support the growth of the aviation sector in the state of Andhra Pradesh.”

The UAE group will help the Indian state in improving its aviation infrastructure and identify areas for its “development and investment opportunities”, which include aviation facilities and skill development projects in Andhra Pradesh. A framework facilitating the goals of this collaboration is under process.

Krishna Kishore, CEO of Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board (APEDB) said, “We are confident that this significant partnership with the Emirates Group will be a major boost to APEDB’S strategic efforts to elevate, enhance and develop the aviation industry in Andhra Pradesh. It will contribute positively to Andhra Pradesh’s economic growth as well as help us build a stronger framework for industrial and infrastructural development. We are optimistic with the pivotal role played by the Emirates Group in achieving these goals and have no doubt that the partnership will reap mutual benefits.”

emirates.com