DELHI- On Saturday (December 2, 2023), the IPG and ICPA, the pilot unions of Air India (AI), expressed serious reservations about the airline’s implementation of the flight duty and rest period scheme. They accused the Tata Group airline of deviating from the approved norms of the DGCA.
In a collaborative communication to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Indian Pilots’ Guild (IPG) and the Indian Commercial Pilots’ Association (ICPA) also alleged that Air India’s introduction of a supplementary policy, in conjunction with the flight duty time limitation (FDTL) scheme, appears to challenge the authority and objectives of the DGCA approval.
Air India Pilot Unions Concerned Over Duty Time
The pilot unions have urged the DGCA to conduct a review and assessment of the situation and have requested the aviation safety regulator to implement appropriate measures to address the issue.
The flight duty time limitations for pilots and cabin crew are regulated by the DGCA, which had proposed increased rest hours for pilots the previous month.
In recent times, fatigue has become a prominent concern, particularly following the tragic incident in September where an IndiGo (6E) pilot collapsed at the boarding gate of Nagpur airport.
Additionally, last month, an Air India pilot displayed signs of discomfort during a training session and later passed away at the Delhi Airport (DEL).
Nevertheless, Air India clarified that the pilot in question was not actively engaged in flying duties but was undergoing conversion training to operate wide-body aircraft.
Deviation from Standard Norms
The two pilot unions at Air India conveyed their profound concern and disappointment regarding recent developments related to the Flight and Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) scheme in a communication addressed to the DGCA.
The letter alleged a “deviation” from the DGCA-approved Air India FDTL scheme, highlighting the management’s sudden formulation and implementation of an “Air India Rostering Practices Policy” starting from December 1.
It further asserted that this policy violates the DGCA CAR FDTL and is not part of the approved Air India FDTL Scheme by the DGCA.
“The mentioned policy lacks approval from the DGCA, an essential entity ensuring the safety and dependability of civil aviation operations in our nation. The endorsement of the FDTL scheme is evidence of a meticulous evaluation, considering safety measures for the protection of both airline crew members and passengers,” it emphasized.
“The policy appears to undermine the authority and purpose behind DGCA approval. We earnestly request the DGCA to scrutinize and evaluate the repercussions of Air India’s supplementary policy on the FDTL CAR. It is imperative to ensure that any modifications implemented by airlines adhere to approved regulations, safeguarding the safety and well-being of both crew and passengers,” highlighted the letter.
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