Pratt & Whitney has published an assessment of the social impact of general aviation in three primary missions: emergency medical services, remote air connectivity and disaster management. Called Social Impact of General Aviation, the whitepaper examines the financial and operational models of aviation missions around the world that focus on the common public good. The study was conducted in collaboration with the Business Aircraft Operators Association (BAOA) of India and was released at the recent BizAvIndia 2020 conference.

“Pratt & Whitney turboprop, turboshaft and turbofan engines have powered the growth of business and general aviation for decades,” says MD of P&W India Ashmita Sethi. “BAOA is the voice of business and general aviation in India and we're delighted to have collaborated with it on this project. The study demonstrates just how vital these kinds of missions are to societies around the world.”

Emergency medical services are growing around the world, and particularly in the Asia Pacific region, due to ageing populations, increased healthcare spending and favourable policies.

Remote air connectivity supported by governments can overcome barriers such as lack of physical infrastructure, limited economic opportunities and governance challenges. The study talks about how a comprehensive set of policies can help lift up the social and economic status of remote regions.

Disaster management is growing in importance around the world, including missions such as firefighting, search and rescue (SAR) and humanitarian aid programmes like the World Food Program (WFP) and United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS).

“In India and around the world, social missions like these are helping millions of people. The study demonstrates how important it is to set up the best possible policies and financing models to empower our fellow citizens, and boost our economy,” says R. K. Bali, MD of BAOA.