ALPA India Presses DGCA for Full Implementation of Pilot Duty Rules
- ALPA India calls for complete enforcement of new pilot duty time norms
- DGCA accused of favoring airline interests over pilot safety
- Pilots demand consultation on safety-related decisions
The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) India has urged the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to fully enforce the revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) rules without further delays or exceptions. The association says selective relaxations of the rules favor airlines' commercial concerns, posing risks to pilot safety and fatigue management.
The DGCA introduced updated FDTL policies earlier this year, aimed at giving pilots more rest between flights. Though the new rules were initially supposed to take effect in full on June 1, 2024, the regulator has opted for a phased rollout. So far, 15 of the 22 provisions were implemented on July 1, while the remaining, including reduced night landings, were scheduled for November 1.
ALPA India criticized the DGCA for making key decisions without consulting pilots, who are directly affected by fatigue-related operational issues. The group emphasized that safety protocols should not be compromised to meet airlines’ schedules or staffing concerns, especially when there is no proven pilot shortage in the country.
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The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has already indicated plans to file a contempt notice against the DGCA, accusing it of inconsistent application of flight safety regulations. ALPA has further insisted that any future changes must involve pilot representatives to ensure safety remains a top priority.
The association has called for immediate corrective action to preserve trust in the aviation safety framework and maintain high standards for both pilots and passengers.
