image sourced from original article at The global aviation industry experienced a dramatic rebound in 2025, with passenger numbers nearing the 10 billion milestone, signaling a full recovery from the pandemic's devastating impact. However, this resurgence was marred by a series of crises, most notably Air India's catastrophic crash in Gujarat, which claimed 260 lives and became India's deadliest aviation disaster in nearly thirty years. Indian aviation also faced chaos as IndiGo struggled with new flight duty norms, leading to widespread delays and cancellations, while GPS spoofing incidents further disrupted operations at major airports.
Internationally, the sector was tested by technical faults, labor strikes, and geopolitical tensions. Airbus grounded thousands of jets for urgent safety checks, a prolonged government shutdown in the United States caused mass flight cancellations, and major disruptions hit airports in the United Kingdom and Canada. Airspace closures due to regional conflicts and natural disasters added to the turmoil, forcing airlines into costly detours and operational challenges.
Despite these setbacks, both Indian and global aviation demonstrated resilience. India saw a 5% year-on-year increase in domestic passengers and welcomed new carriers and airport expansions. Worldwide, strong demand persisted, highlighting the enduring appeal and adaptability of air travel amid unprecedented challenges.
