The Top Flight

Mark Sutch, Regional General Manager South Asia, Middle East and Africa, Cathay Pacific, speaks about the airlines journey into India, the scenario of the Indian aviation industry and more.

- Rama Ahuja

As Cathay Pacific’s Regional General Manager for South Asia, Middle East & Africa, Mark Sutch aims at providing customers with an enriched flying experience.

Please tell us about your journey into the aviation industry.

I was lucky enough to fly very young - my first trip on an international flight was when I was merely 6 weeks old. From the moment I could recall the experience of flying, I was passionate about it! Although I think it was watching my late father who was active in the aviation industry that re-enforced my passion for it. Soon after joining the industry, I found myself further interested in it and actually learnt to fly. I eventually bought a share in a private aircraft and safe to say I am hooked!

What are the challenges you face in India’s aviation industry?

With a huge growth in civil aviation in recent years there has been a strain on infrastructure. That said, the new airports in Mumbai and Delhi and many other cities in India are world class. It’s exciting being in a market like India that is growing fast in both domestic and international air travel. My challenge here, like in every other region, is getting from point A to point B on time. But, I must say it’s working well so far!