India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), is at a pivotal juncture as it prepares to finalize the summer flight schedules beginning March 29. The regulator must navigate a complex landscape to ensure that pilot shortages and operational disruptions similar to IndiGo’s issues in December do not recur, while also addressing concerns about crew fatigue and safety.
The current matter revolves around flight duty time limitation (FDTL) norms, which dictate how long flight crews can work. At present, major airlines in India operate under temporary exemptions from certain FDTL rules set to expire at the end of next month, coinciding with the peak summer travel season. Airlines have put forth requests for extensions on these exemptions, prompting the DGCA to carefully evaluate their appeals.
The regulator’s forthcoming decision will significantly influence the flight operations of these airlines. Should these exemptions be revoked, companies might be compelled to reduce flights during this busy season, potentially leading to increased fares and public dissatisfaction, a scenario the government is keen to avoid. Conversely, extending these relaxations could exacerbate issues related to pilot fatigue and safety risks. The DGCA finds itself between the demands of airline growth strategies and the imperative of pilot welfare.
Adding to the complexity, Air India is navigating longer routes to Western destinations due to geopolitical airspace restrictions. Flights exceeding 10 hours typically require three pilots, but with Pakistan’s airspace closure leading to extended flight durations from India’s northern regions, Air India has been permitted to operate some flights up to 10.5 hours with just two pilots. A deterioration in regional tensions could necessitate even longer routes, prompting Air India to potentially reduce its services to Europe and the UK if exemptions are lifted.
Moreover, major Indian airports face slot constraints, increasing pressure on airlines like IndiGo and Akasa. These budget carriers often receive late-night slots, compelling them to operate during the early hours. Reports indicate that IndiGo has requested changes to the definitions surrounding night duty, aiming to reduce the night period and allow for additional landings during night shifts. Without regulatory adjustments, the airline may confront significant flight cancellations, hampering its capacity growth.
Pilots have expressed concerns that the current challenges stem from airlines overly relying on exemptions instead of investing in adequate staffing. Senior pilots have noted that exemptions meant for extraordinary circumstances, such as airspace closures, have become standard practice as airlines have expanded operations without sufficient hiring or timely promotions for co-pilots to captain positions. This has led to increased fatigue, stress, and unrealistic rosters, compelling airlines to reassess their staffing approaches.
In recent months, both IndiGo and Air India have resumed pilot recruitment following a period of stagnation. With a surge in summer travel demand anticipated, the DGCA’s decision on FDTL exemptions will be key to determining whether airlines can operate smoothly or face additional operational challenges. As the industry grapples with this balancing act, stakeholders hope for a resolution that prioritizes safety while allowing for growth in India’s thriving aviation sector.