Airlines Announce June 2025 Start for Revised Pilot Duty Norms Implementation
In response to growing concerns over pilot fatigue, India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has proposed revised Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) on flight duty time limitations, focusing on providing more rest for pilots. However, major airlines IndiGo and Air India have informed the regulator that the implementation of the new norms will require a phased approach starting June 2025.
In response to growing concerns over pilot fatigue, India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has proposed revised Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) on flight duty time limitations, focusing on providing more rest for pilots. However, major airlines IndiGo and Air India have informed the regulator that the implementation of the new norms will require a phased approach starting June 2025.
Airlines’ Stance on New Norms
According to sources, IndiGo has proposed starting with an increase in weekly rest periods for pilots from 36 to 40 hours by June 2025. The airline also suggested further adjustments, including limiting night landings for pilots to a maximum of two during the 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. window, starting October 2026. IndiGo estimates that the changes could necessitate a 3% increase in crew staffing.
Air India echoed a similar phased approach, citing operational challenges with implementing the revised definitions of night duty and rest periods. The airline emphasized that the measures would be best integrated within a Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS), highlighting concerns that static regulations might not fully address the dynamic nature of fatigue risks.
Pilots’ Associations Push for Earlier Implementation
Pilots’ associations, including the Indian Pilots Guild, Indian Commercial Pilots Association, and Federation of Indian Pilots, have urged DGCA to fully implement the norms as early as February 15, 2024. They argue that timely adoption is critical to addressing fatigue-related risks for flight crews.
Legal and Regulatory Developments
The implementation of the revised CAR was initially slated for June 1, 2023, but has been postponed multiple times. Earlier this month, the Delhi High Court directed DGCA to hold discussions with airlines, pilots’ associations, and the Ministry of Civil Aviation to resolve concerns. The meeting took place on December 18, with airlines requesting additional time for a smoother transition.
Looking Ahead
As the DGCA evaluates the feedback, the aviation industry continues to grapple with balancing operational feasibility and pilot welfare. The phased implementation, starting June 2025, aims to ensure compliance while addressing practical challenges raised by airlines.
Key Highlights
- Revised CAR: Focuses on increased rest periods for pilots to mitigate fatigue risks.
- Airlines’ Timeline: Phased implementation starting June 2025, with further measures by October 2026.
- Pilots’ Stand: Associations demand immediate adoption of the new norms, citing safety concerns.
- Regulatory Process: Multiple postponements have marked the implementation timeline, with ongoing consultations involving all stakeholders.
The revised norms are poised to bring significant changes to pilot scheduling and operational practices, marking a critical step towards enhancing aviation safety standards in India.
Sources By Agencies
About The Author
