The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has proposed stricter aviation safety regulations aimed at enhancing pilot training standards and operational preparedness, according to a new draft of revised norms issued for public consultation. The proposed changes are intended to strengthen passenger safety across scheduled airline operations in India.

Under the draft rules, a pilot-in-command (PIC) or co-pilot will not be permitted to handle flight controls during take-off or landing unless they have completed at least three take-offs and landings within the preceding 90 days on the same aircraft type or an approved simulator. The requirement applies to aircraft weighing more than 5,700 kg, covering most commercial passenger aircraft operated by scheduled airlines.

The DGCA stated that the revised framework is designed to ensure that pilots maintain recent operational experience on specific aircraft types. Officials clarified that while the norms will apply to major commercial operations, smaller aircraft below the specified weight category will be excluded from this requirement.

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The draft also introduces stricter conditions for cruise relief pilots, who are responsible for taking over flying duties during long-haul flights to allow primary pilots rest periods. According to the proposal, a pilot cannot be assigned as a cruise relief pilot unless they have either operated as PIC, co-pilot, or cruise relief pilot on the same aircraft type within the previous 90 days, or have completed approved flying skill refresher training.

Additionally, the new framework tightens requirements for Zero Flight Time Training (ZFTT), which allows pilots to train on simulators without actual base flight training. The draft mandates that pilots must complete a specified number of take-offs and landings before being cleared to operate an aircraft under such training programmes.

The DGCA has also proposed mandatory annual recurrent training for all flight crew members, including both ground and aircraft training every 12 months. The regulator has invited stakeholder feedback on the draft regulations until May 3, after which the final rules will be notified.

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