AVIATION

The aviation industry expects a 13% growth in domestic air passenger traffic to 15.4 crore in 2023-24 with a reduced net loss. Supply chain challenges and engine failures pose near term headwinds.

DGCA’s move comes after the Delhi High Court, last week asked the regulator for a tentative date for implementation of the revised duty time norms for pilots. The court was hearing a writ petition filed by multiple pilot unions, challenging the DGCA rules on pilot’s duty hours.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) clarified its stance on handling unruly passengers after a petition by a woman who was urinated on by a co-passenger on a flight. DGCA mentioned that airlines have the discretion to set limits on alcohol served onboard and to formulate policies to prevent passengers from becoming intoxicated. The incident highlighted the need for clear guidelines and strict enforcement to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.

Technicians at AI Engineering Services Ltd. — a state-run maintenance, repair and overhaul firm and an erstwhile Air India unit — will strike on April 23 due to various issues affecting their “well-being” and “professional growth,” All India Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Union wrote in a letter dated April 8 to the chief executive officer.

Air India and BIAL have joined forces to develop Bengaluru as a premier aviation hub, enhancing connectivity and passenger experience. The agreement includes AIX, Vistara, and a focus on international connectivity, MRO facilities, and job creation.

Implementing the single airspace strategy will allow carriers to determine the most optimal routes, saving time and fuel. Planes can fly more consistently at higher altitudes, burning less fuel, and descend more efficiently and smoothly to land.

In 2023-24, Mumbai expects 153.4M domestic passengers, with international traffic of 70M. CAPA India revised figures in October 2023. India's aviation market shows rapid growth.

While India's aviation sector is growing, more and more people are flying, airlines are adding more aircraft and airports are being built even in far corners, flyers are complaining about delays, cancellations, low quality of service and fares jumping to new highs.

SpiceJet has secured ownership of six Q400 aircraft through a settlement with NAC, saving on monthly rentals and bolstering long-term finances. Recent agreements with aircraft lessors position the airline for substantial savings of Rs 1,252 crore.

BCAS's new guidelines allow passengers to exit aircraft at departure gates during long flight delays, reducing inconvenience. Issued on March 30, these measures aim to address rising congestion and flight delays. BCAS Director General Zulfiquar Hasan emphasized joint decision-making between airlines and security agencies for passenger deboarding. Smart security lanes and full-body scanners are planned for improved airport experiences. Measures include timely baggage arrival directives and fines for non-compliance.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is set to fill 122 operational positions approved by the finance ministry, strengthening the agency's capabilities amidst increasing air traffic. These new positions will facilitate the establishment of 17 new offices, including 4 regional and 13 sub-regional offices. BCAS Director General Zulfiquar Hasan highlighted the agency's role in securing the aviation sector, which now sees around 5.5 lakh passengers carrying 7 lakh hand baggages and 8.5 lakh cabin baggages. The BCAS was established on April 1, 1987, following the Kanishka tragedy in 1985, to enhance aviation security.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issues new guidelines for airports and airlines to deplane passengers during tarmac delays, offering relief to travelers. Decision-making authority lies with airport security or airlines. The move aims to address delays caused by weather, medical emergencies, or technical issues, ensuring passenger comfort and safety.

The CBI has filed a closure report in its probe into alleged irregularities in aircraft leasing by NACIL, formed by the Air India-Indian Airlines merger, citing no evidence of wrongdoing. The investigation, initiated in 2017, found no irregularities. Other cases related to Air India's alleged irregularities, including seat-sharing with private airlines, are ongoing. The special court will decide whether to accept the report or order further investigation. The case involves leasing aircraft despite low load factors, resulting in losses to Air India and gains for private entities.