Foundation for Aviation and Sustainable Tourism (FAST) founded in 1992 is an international, non – government, non- political, autonomous research organization working not for profit. Its objective is to promote Civil Aviation and Tourism in harmony with the environment. Dr. S. S. Sidhu former Secretary General, International Civil Aviation Organisation is its founder Chairman. Lt. Gen (Retd) KM Seth, PVSM, AVSM, former Governor of Tripura & Chhattisgarh is now the President. Mr. Gurcharan Bhatura, former Executive Director, Airports Authority of India is the Director General and Mr. B.K. Joshi, former Joint Director General of Civil Aviation, is the Secretary General. It is the only research organization in India, seeking to combine both Aviation and Tourism under a single umbrella. It is registered with ICAO as supplier of Services (Studies) and A.D.B as a Regional Study Center which in itself implies recognition of its standing. The Foundation provides a common platform for industry and the government to find workable solutions. It has been invited by the Chattisgarh Tourism Board, Raipur, for advice on introduction of ‘Heli – Tourism’. North East Council Sectt. Shillong, has sought its advice to improve ‘Air Connectivity in the NE Region’. It has also been approached for advice on setting up of a flying academy in Lilabari airport Assam, suggesting regulatory mechanism for Civil Aviation for Planning Commission, Action Plan for development of sustainable tourism in Adaman & Nicobar Islands.. Ministry of Civil Aviation associated FAST as a member of Kaw Committee constituted to review the working of the DGCA. FAST over the last 15 years has conducted number of studies and international/ national seminars and conferences and contributed significantly towards the promotion of Civil Aviation in India and for developing cordial relations with International Civil Aviation Industry. Its seventh International conference on “INDIA – ASIA Civil Aviation cooperation” is schedule in Sept 2009.

With the exponential growth of Aviation Industry in India and need to develop infrastructure and modernize Airports; FAST is positioned to offer its services, particularly to Aviation industry by flagging their issues with the Government and to play the role of a facilitator.