DGCA Stands Firm on June 1 Deadline for Revised Flight Duty Norms

Despite appeals from the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA) for an extension, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) maintains its stance on the June 1 deadline for implementing revised flight duty norms. The regulator emphasizes the importance of mitigating pilot fatigue through the revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms, which include increased weekly rest time and limitations on night operations.

Airlines are instructed to submit revised FDTL schemes by April 15, ensuring compliance by June 1, 2024. The DGCA underscores the necessity of these measures in light of recent pilot fatalities attributed to exhausting roster schedules. The decision comes after careful consideration of feedback from stakeholders and operators, with safety remaining the top priority for aviation operations in India.