DGCA Delays New Pilot Duty Regulations: Why?

The PTI, quoting government sources, stated that the introduction of new flight duty regulations for pilots, intended to reduce weariness, has been postponed.

Due to airline worries about higher expenses, the amended norms—which were originally scheduled to take effect on June 1—have been put on hold for broader discussions.

According to one source, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) delayed the deployment to ensure careful consideration of all considerations. This decision is the result of recent correspondence—which Money Control reported—indicating that airlines would not be granted an extension to apply the revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) restrictions.

Major airlines like Air India, SpiceJet, and IndiGo are represented by the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA), which asked for an extension to apply the new rules that were announced on January 8.

The modified FDTL CAR will take effect on June 1, 2024, and the regulator has emphasized that airlines must comply. Among the enhanced rules are longer weekly rest periods, restrictions on night landings, and prolonged night shifts for pilots.

Furthermore, all airlines must now provide quarterly data on fatigue, guaranteeing a non-punitive and private policy.