Aerospace imports in India — aircraft, engines, avionics, and spare parts — benefit from some of the most comprehensive duty exemptions in Indian customs, reflecting the government's recognition that domestic aerospace manufacturing cannot meet all demand. DGCA oversight and dual-use export controls add regulatory layers beyond standard customs.
Aircraft Import Duty Exemptions
| Category | BCD | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial aircraft (passenger/cargo) | 0% | CBIC Notification exemption for scheduled carriers |
| Aircraft engines | 0% | Exempt under aviation notifications |
| Rotorcraft (helicopters) | 0% | For registered airlines |
| Aircraft spare parts | 0% | For scheduled airlines; DGCA registration required |
| Flight simulators | 0% | For DGCA-approved training |
| Private/general aviation aircraft | 2.5% | Non-scheduled; separate notification |
| Drones (commercial use) | 5–10% | Requires DGCA UAOP; rules evolving rapidly |
Dual-Use Export Controls
Aerospace imports from certain countries require verification that goods are not on the SCOMET (Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment, and Technologies) controlled list:
- DGFT administers SCOMET; import of SCOMET-listed aerospace items needs authorization
- Avionics with military applications may require end-user certificates
- US-origin aerospace goods may require EAR (Export Administration Regulations) compliance
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Frequently asked questions
Commercial aircraft for scheduled airlines: BCD 0% under CBIC exemption notification. Private aircraft: 2.5% BCD. All IGST is 5% on aircraft.
Spare parts for scheduled airlines: 0% BCD under exemption notification. Non-airline users pay standard rates. Parts must be for DGCA-registered aircraft to claim the exemption.