Azim Premji pushes for use of IT to improve Indian aviation sector

NEW DELHI: With growing aviation activities in the country, Wipro founder Azim Premji today called for the formulation of a comprehensive IT master plan to manage flights and airports and increase passenger convenience.

At a meeting with Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju here, Premji suggested that there was a huge potential for using IT to improve airport activities and security, officials said.

The noted technology entrepreneur said that increased use of information technology would go a long way towards reducing costs and improving passenger convenience and asset management, besides leading to faster turnaround of airplanes.

During discussions, Premji also stressed on the huge potential of aircargo to earn revenue, especially on perishable items like vegetables and fruits, they said.

Raju also had a meeting with Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, who wanted the ministry to clear some projects aimed at enhancing the capacity at the state's Dabolim airport.

These included construction of 5-6 additional parking bays following demand from new airlines, including AirAsia, the officials said.