India, US to sign accord on assistance in aviation

New Delhi, Apr 18: India will sign a Memorandum of Agreement with the United States providing for assistance by Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) in developing and modernising civil aviation infrastructure in managerial, operational and technical areas.

The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for signing the Umbrella agreement.

Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal told mediapersons after the cabinet meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, that similar agreements had been signed by the US with more than 100 countries.

The assistance essentially covers : providing technical managerial expertise in developing, improving and operation of civil aviation infrastructure, standards, procedures, policies, training and equipment and providing training of civil aviation personnel.

It will also cover inspection and calibration of India's civil aviation equipment and air navigation facilities, providing resources, logistical support and equipment for air navigation facilities, assistance in airport certification in India and assistance in the field of helicopter , operation and safety initiative, Mr Sibal added.

UNI