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Pilots' Fury: IndiGo Gets Safety Rule Exemption
5 Dec
Summary
- Pilots' body objects to DGCA's selective safety exemption for IndiGo.
- IndiGo received temporary relief from stricter night duty rules.
- New rules mandate increased rest and fewer night landings.
The Airlines' Pilots Association (ALPA) India has voiced strong objections to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation's (DGCA) recent decision to grant IndiGo temporary exemption from new, stricter night duty rules for pilots. This move comes as IndiGo faces widespread flight cancellations, with ALPA labeling the DGCA's action as "selective and unsafe," warning it sets a dangerous precedent.
ALPA India contends that IndiGo sought this relief despite knowingly expanding winter operations while being fully aware of the implementation of the second phase of pilot flight duty and rest period norms. The association previously alleged that the cancellations pointed to a failure in proactive resource planning by dominant airlines, possibly to pressure the regulator into diluting the norms for commercial gain.
The new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FTDL) norms, implemented in phases, include increased rest periods and significantly limit night landings. ALPA India expressed dismay, stating that dispensations granted to IndiGo contradict previous agreements and compromise pilot and passenger safety.
