Amendment to Aircraft Rules, 1937: A Significant Step towards Strengthening Aviation Safety and Ease of Doing Business in aviation regulation

Source: The post is based on the article “Amendment to Aircraft Rules, 1937: A Significant Step towards Strengthening Aviation Safety and Ease of Doing Business in aviation regulation” published in “PIB” on 17th October 2023

What is the News?

The Government of India has made several amendments to the Aircraft Rules,1937. 

These amendments aim to make doing business in aviation easier and ensure safety and security.

What are the key amendments made to the Aircraft Rules,1937?

License Validity of Pilots extended: The validity of Airline Transport Pilot Licenses (ATPL) and Commercial Pilot Licenses (CPL) has been increased from five years to ten years.This means pilots don’t have to renew their licenses as often.

Display of Lights near Aerodromes: The rules have been updated to tackle the concerns regarding the display of lights near aerodromes (part of an airport that is used by aircraft)

– The term ‘light’ now includes lantern lights, wish kites and laser lights.

– Government’s jurisdiction over those displaying such lights has been increased from a 5-kilometer radius to 5 nautical miles around an aerodrome.

– Government also has the power to take action against people who use lights that could disrupt aircraft safety or harm the crew.

– For instance, if such lights are left unattended for 24 hours, the government can enter the location and turn them off.Legal action under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) can also be taken in such cases.

Foreign License Validation Removed: The requirement to validate foreign pilot licenses has been removed.

Flexible Rules for Air Traffic Controllers(ATC): ATC license holders have more flexibility now when it comes to hours of work. 

– They now need to complete a minimum of ten hours of simulated exercises including emergency scenarios.A skill assessment for their rating must be done within ten days of starting these exercises.