Bengaluru, Sept. 28 -- Private jet and helicopter ownership is surging in Karnataka, marking the state one of India's most important hubs for private aviation.
In recent years, Karnataka has not only grown into a key centre for aerospace and defence but has also witnessed a sharp rise in private aircraft ownership. Political leaders, major corporates, and business magnates are increasingly relying on their own helicopters and jets for political, business, and personal travel.
Among the notable private owners, Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi, the first in North Karnataka to own a helicopter, operates an Agusta AW109 worth about Rs 30 crore. Veteran politician and Shamanur Group chief Shamanur Shivashankarappa owns a Eurocopter AS 35...