The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has informed the Delhi High Court that the implementation of new pilot rest norms, aimed at combating fatigue, will now commence in a phased manner starting July 2025. The rules, initially scheduled for June 2024, were delayed due to opposition from airlines citing operational and financial concerns.
Key Features of the New Norms
- Enhanced Rest Periods: Pilots will have 48 hours of weekly rest, up from the previous 36 hours.
- Reduced Night Flying: The norms aim to limit pilots’ exposure to fatigue by curbing nighttime flying hours.
These changes were notified in January 2024 but faced resistance, leading to a six-month postponement in March.
Industry Opposition and Delays
- Airlines’ Concerns: The Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA) argued that implementing these norms would require hiring 10-20% more pilots, potentially leading to flight cancellations and higher airfares. Air India further indicated that the new rules could reduce salaries for narrow-body pilots due to fewer flying hours.
- Operational Challenges: The DGCA cited the need for software integration, pilot training, and onboarding as reasons for phased implementation.
Court Intervention
The Delhi High Court is actively addressing the issue:
- Pilot Bodies’ Petition: Organizations like the Federation of Indian Pilots have stressed the importance of prioritizing pilot health and safety over financial considerations.
- Consensus Meetings: The court has directed the DGCA to meet with Air India and pilot associations to finalize an agreeable timeline, with the next hearing scheduled for January 23, 2025.
Conclusion
The delay in implementing DGCA’s revised rest norms highlights the balancing act between operational feasibility, passenger convenience, and pilot well-being. While airlines grapple with logistical hurdles, the focus remains on ensuring safer skies for all. The phased rollout from July 2025 reflects the regulator’s intent to address these competing priorities thoughtfully.
