Amendment to Aircraft Rules, 1937: Elevating India’s Aviation Safety and Business Ease
A Groundbreaking Shift in Indian Aviation
INVC NEWS
New Delhi : The recent Amendment to Aircraft Rules, 1937, notified in the Gazette on October 10, 2023, is a pivotal development in enhancing aviation safety and simplifying regulatory compliance for businesses. The amendment serves as a cornerstone in aligning India’s aviation sector with global best practices and standards.
In-Depth Consultations with Industry Stakeholders
The amendment is the outcome of exhaustive consultations with key stakeholders in the aviation industry. It aims to fortify the existing safety and security regulations while facilitating ease of doing business. These revisions are in line with the Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Highlight: Extension of License Validity for Pilots
One standout feature of the amendment is the alteration to Rule 39C, which extends the validity of Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL) from five years to ten. This change mitigates the administrative load on both pilots and regulatory bodies like the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), paving the way for a more efficient licensing system.
Rule 66: Addressing the Issue of “False Lights”
The amendment also revamps Rule 66, concerning the display of “false lights” near aerodromes. The rule now explicitly includes lantern lights, wish kites, and laser lights. Moreover, the jurisdiction for overseeing such lights has been broadened from 5 kilometers to 5 nautical miles around an aerodrome, granting the government expanded authority to act against potential hazards.
Elimination of Redundant Regulations
In a nod to the dynamic nature of the aviation industry, Rule 118, which pertained to the validation of foreign licenses, has been removed. This step ensures that the regulations are adaptive to the industry’s evolving requirements.
Additional Provisions for Air Traffic Controllers
The amendment introduces clauses in Schedule III that liberalize the recency and competency criteria for Air Traffic Controller License holders. These changes provide more flexibility in scenarios with limited activity, requiring a minimum of ten hours of simulated exercises, followed by a skills assessment.
Conclusion: A Milestone for Aviation in India
The Amendment to Aircraft Rules, 1937 serves as a catalyst for robust growth in India’s aviation sector. By focusing on safety, security, and regulatory compliance, this amendment positions India’s aviation industry at the pinnacle of global standards.
