Kochi will host Cokpit 2027, a global aviation GCC leadership summit, on January 28 and 29, 2027, bringing together senior executives from more than 25 leading international airlines. Organised by Infopark, the two-day event aims to attract aviation-focused Global Capability Centres (GCCs) to Keralam and generate new investment and employment opportunities.
Industries Minister PK Kunhalikutty unveiled the summit's logo and website in the presence of Infopark CEO Sushanth Kurunthil.
The summit will bring together leading airlines and technology companies to explore investment opportunities in Keralam's emerging aviation technology ecosystem.
Senior executives representing more than 25 major airlines from the Gulf countries, India, Asia-Pacific, Europe and the United States are expected to participate.
Discussions will focus on artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, product management and digital hubs, highlighting Kochi's potential as a destination for technology-driven aviation operations.
The summit will also examine how airlines can transform their GCCs into strategic technology centres that contribute directly to revenue growth and operational efficiency.
The event comes as multinational companies increasingly explore Tier 2 cities such as Kochi for expanding their operations beyond established metropolitan technology hubs.
Keralam aims to establish 150 GCCs by 2031, positioning the state as a destination for the technology and business operations of global corporations.
Kunhalikutty said the summit was expected to attract greater investment in aviation-related technology, data analytics, digital services and AI-driven operations.
Kochi's international air connectivity, the CIAL Aerocity project and aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities are considered important advantages in attracting aviation investments.
The summit, organised with the state government's full support, will showcase Keralam's investment potential to international companies.
Infopark CEO Sushanth Kurunthil said the initiative could open new opportunities for positioning Kochi as a global centre for aviation technology operations.
Global Capability Centres are specialised facilities established by multinational companies to manage technology, research, financial management and other business functions across different countries.
Unlike conventional IT outsourcing companies, GCCs operate under the direct control of their parent organisations. These centres typically handle software development, AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, research and development, and other high-value business functions.
Their importance has expanded as global corporations seek cost-efficient locations with skilled professionals and advanced technology infrastructure.
India has emerged as a major GCC destination, accounting for around 53% of such centres worldwide, according to figures cited in the original report.
The country's skilled workforce, relatively lower operating costs and established technology ecosystem have helped attract multinational companies, particularly to Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai and Pune.
Despite its strong IT talent pool, Keralam currently hosts just 22 GCCs, compared with 2,020 centres across India. This relatively small presence highlights the opportunity for the state to attract a larger share of multinational companies' technology and business operations.
Expanding GCC activity in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram could generate high-paying employment opportunities while supporting growth in IT, commercial real estate and allied services.
Cokpit 2027 is expected to strengthen these efforts by introducing Keralam's infrastructure, talent and investment potential to major international aviation companies.
The summit could also help Kochi establish a stronger position in the global aviation technology landscape as airlines increasingly invest in AI, digital platforms and data-driven operations.
