DGCA eases norms for pilots, airlines

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, March 27

In line with the unprecedented situation arising out of 21-day nationwide lockdown in the wake of Covid-19 outbreak, the aviation regulator DGCA today took a slew of exemption measures, including extension to the validity of pilots’ licences that were nearing expiry for next 90 days.

At the same time it has also extended the validity of medical assessment certificates, aircraft rating certificates, skill test certificates, etc. for a period of 90 days from now.

“The DGCA is aware that operators and individual licence holders are facing issues in completing their requirements towards renewal, issuance of various pilot licences and ratings and to exercise the privileges of their respective licenses and ratings, including temporary authorisations (FATA),” it said in a public notice issued by the regulator.

FATA stands for foreign aircrew temporary authorisation, which is issued to foreign pilots that are working for Indian airline companies.

“Owing to restrictions, several training organisations utilised for the training of flight crew, conduct of checks have been affected and shut down in many places,” the DGCA’s public notice said.