Latest news with #DirectorateGeneralofCivilAviation
Mint
an hour ago
- Business
- Mint
British Airways expects India's ‘big middle class' segment to fuel travel demand amid expansion plans
London-based airline operator British Airways Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sean Doyle expects India's 'big and emerging' middle class to fuel the nation's travel demand in the next 10 years amid the company's expansion plans with help from the India-UK free trade agreement. 'I think that the growth is going to be incredibly exciting, and something that you won't see. It's a once-in-a-generation growth opportunity here, what's happening in India,' the CEO told the news agency PTI. In an interview with the news agency, the CEO, Sean Doyle, said that the company plans to further expand its air routes, flight frequencies, and cargo operations, leveraging the India-UK free trade agreement. According to the agency report, the airline currently operates 56 flights from five Indian cities every week. These flights include three weekly flights from Mumbai, two daily flights from Delhi, and one daily flight from Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. Doyle also highlighted that India serves as a 'very important' market for British Airways, as the airline plans to reintroduce first-class seats in the Boeing 787-9 aircraft flying between Mumbai and the London Heathrow route later this year. 'I think we want to be part of the growth of aviation in India. We have been part of it for 100 years... about 2,500 people work for British Airways in India... outside of the United States, our biggest single market is India,' Doyle told the news agency. British Airways CEO Sean Doyle expects more cargo opportunities between India and the United Kingdom (UK) due to the two nations' Free Trade Agreement (FTA). 'I expect more cargo being exported from India under the FTA. And I would expect as well that it would be an increase in certain niche exports coming into India as well. Not necessarily out of the UK but also out of the surrounding kind of markets that we serve,' the airline CEO told the news agency. As the world still remains uncertain about the US President Donald Trump's imposed tariffs, Doyle said that everyone is still watching what is happening and the impact of these import duties. President Trump's decision to impose 'reciprocal tariffs' on all good imported from other world nations fueled a international tariff war which is raging and causing concerns of uncertainty to date. Data collected from India's aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), shows that the number of passengers carried by domestic airlines during the January to April 2025 period witnessed a 9.87 per cent rise at 575.13 lakhs or over 5.75 crore, compared year-on-year (YoY) with 523.46 or more than 5.23 crore in the same period a year ago. The passenger air traffic also witnessed an 8.45 per cent growth on a month-on-month (MoM) comparison from March 2025 to April 2025. 'Passengers carried by domestic airlines during January-April 2025 were 575.13 lakhs as against 523.46 lakhs during the corresponding period of the previous year thereby registering an annual growth of 9.87% and monthly growth of 8.45%,' said DGCA in its monthly traffic data release. The data also showed that the overall cancellation rate of scheduled domestic airlines for April 2025 was at 0.64 per cent, with Akasa Air, Air India Group, and IndiGo at the lowest level.
New Indian Express
9 hours ago
- Business
- New Indian Express
All-weather condition: DGCA says will begin new training module for pilots
NEW DELHI: To ensure enhanced safety for flyers and meet the expected demand for pilots in the future, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has decided to give the green light to an internationally recognised pilot training programme. The process of introducing Multi-Crew Pilot Licence (MPL) training with advanced flight simulators is under way. Speaking to this newspaper, the DGCA director general Faiz Ahmed Kidwai said, 'MPL, recognised by the International Civil Aviation Organisation, differs from the traditional Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) Training based on single pilot operations. This will focus on the development of pilot competencies required to operate in multi-crew environments right from the start. It will integrate theory and simulator training to ensure that pilots are better prepared for the commercial aviation industry.' The hours spent on the flight simulators would be added to the required flying hours of the pilots, he added. Loss of control in flight is reported as the leading cause of fatal accidents in airlines. 'In MPL, entry-level first officers will benefit through a specially-designed programme that imparts lessons on managing and mitigation of airline-specific operations and threats that have been collated over decades,' Kidwai said. There are over 38 simulators presently in India and a good number would be purchased for use in MPL, he added. The booming Indian aviation sector will need over 1,700 new pilots annually. 'MPL training will ensure fewer training disruptions that are caused in the traditional method due to bad flying weather and shortage of instructors,' the official said, adding that the new module would also result in a reduced reliance on foreign pilots. By switching to modern simulators, it reduces the exposure of students to the risks of serious and often fatal accidents that happen during the primary flight training phase in the traditional system, he added. Another major benefit is that because of reduced hours spent on the aircraft in MPL training, more cadets would be able to train at Flying Training Organisations, he said.
Time of India
16 hours ago
- Time of India
SpiceJet flight's passengers sit in aircraft for 3 hours in Delhi, reach Pune 4 hours late
1 2 3 Pune: Around 150 passengers of SpiceJet's Delhi-Pune flight (SG-477) reached their destination around 9.30pm on Friday, almost four hours behind the schedule and after sitting in the stationary aircraft in the national capital for about three hours. The flight was scheduled to depart from Delhi at 3.25pm and reach the city at 5.35pm. It was initially rescheduled to 4.50pm. The boarding started at 4.30pm, but the aircraft was airborne only around 7.30pm. Flyers remained seated in the static aircraft for almost three hours. They touched down in Pune around 9.30pm. SpiceJet denied that passengers were kept seated in the plane for three hours. "SpiceJet flight SG 477, scheduled to operate from Delhi to Pune on May 30, 2025, was delayed because of a last minute technical issue with the aircraft. Passengers were assisted throughout and were served with refreshments. Passengers were not kept onboard for three hours," a SpiceJet spokesperson told TOI. Puranjay Kumar Rana, a passenger of the flight, differed. "Until around 7.25pm, all flyers sat in the aircraft and were frustrated. It can't be possible that the airline realised that there was an issue with the aircraft after boarding. The flight was already delayed by an hour and checks must done much earlier." Rana said the cabin crew kept on saying that the aircraft would fly in 10 minutes. "After sitting in the aircraft for more than an hour, flyers began to lose their patience. The cabin crew, too, got frustrated and told many flyers that it was not their fault and why were we getting angry at them?" the flyer said. "There have been so many cases of airlines keeping passengers seated in the aircraft. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation and the civil aviation ministry should take some steps on this," Rana said.
NDTV
a day ago
- NDTV
PM Modi Inaugurates Indore Metro Rail Project, Satna And Datia Airports
Bhopal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated three significant transportation projects; including the Indore Metro Rail, along with the Satna and Datia airport projects, during his visit to Bhopal. PM Modi participated in the celebrations commemorating the 300th birth anniversary of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, the distinguished ruler of Malwa. The Indore Metro Rail project, the first of its kind in Madhya Pradesh, marks a transformative step in urban transportation. The Datia airport, for which the foundation stone was laid in 2012 with an initial investment of Rs 21.18 crore, was completed in 2015. It was upgraded into a full-fledged airport in 2023 and became ready for operations by 2024. The metro network spans 31.3 kilometres, with an initial six-kilometre stretch inaugurated by PM Modi on Saturday. The first phase includes five stations at Gandhinagar and various points along the Super Corridor. The metro's rolling stock features stainless steel coaches designed with a white and yellow aesthetic, ensuring rust resistance and durability. A total of 75 coaches are planned for Indore, with 13 three-coach trains already delivered. Each train, measuring 67 meters in length, features advanced safety systems, emergency buttons, intercoms, digital route maps, and LED TVs for passenger information and entertainment. An audio announcement system is integrated to assist visually impaired commuters. Indore's transportation evolution traces back more than a century. The Holkar rulers initiated the construction of a rail line to Khandwa in 1870, completed within five years, with operations commencing in 1876. The first long-distance train service between Indore and Bhopal started in May 1956, and today, approximately 100 trains operate daily from Indore's six platforms. The metro now joins the city's diverse transit history, which has included various forms of transportation ranging from elephants and horses to bullock carts, tongas, tempos, and bicycles. The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited has introduced a third-rail system as an alternative to traditional overhead power lines. Originally limited to accommodating small planes, the Datia airport underwent a significant expansion with an additional Rs 70 crore investment, enabling ATR and 72-seater aircraft to land on its 1810-meter-long runway, spread over 118 acres. With its inauguration, direct flight services will commence between Khajuraho and Bhopal. Similarly, the Satna airport, developed with an investment of Rs 30 crore, traces its origins to an airstrip built during World War II. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation granted it a license in 2024 for operations involving 19-seater aircraft. Now capable of handling two aircraft at a time, it boasts a 1200-meter-long runway. PM Modi also laid the foundation for an ambitious Rs 778 crore project for the construction of ghats along the River Kshipra and transferred the first instalment for the development of 1,271 new Atal panchayat bhavans, a project totalling Rs 483 crore. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav highlighted the historical significance of the day, recalling the Holkar rulers' pioneering efforts in rail infrastructure. Over 150 years after Indore's first railway line to Khandwa was initiated at a cost of Rs 1 crore, a new Rs 7,500 crore metro rail initiative is now set to provide seamless urban mobility. PM Modi received an enthusiastic welcome in Bhopal, greeted by a vast gathering of women waving the Tricolour. Riding in an open jeep, he acknowledged the warmth of the people, accompanied by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and BJP state unit chief VD Sharma. As part of traditional hospitality, he was welcomed with a 'Sindoor' plant.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Flying to Turkey? This one annoying in-flight habit might earn you a hefty fine
In the evolving world of air travel, passenger conduct has become as important as ticketing, boarding, and security protocols. While most aviation safety regulations focus on in-flight behavior and emergency preparedness, Turkey is now turning its attention to a different, often-overlooked part of the journey—the moments immediately after landing. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now In an unprecedented move that is stirring debate across travel communities, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in Turkey has introduced a new directive that allows for the imposition of fines on passengers who stand up prematurely after the aircraft touches down. This long-overdue regulation addresses one of the most universally irritating aspects of flying—the chaotic aisle rush. Whether due to impatience or a desire to grab overhead baggage early, many passengers unbuckle their seatbelts and jump to their feet before the aircraft has even come to a complete stop. While previously dismissed as a mere inconvenience or social faux pas, Turkish authorities now view this behavior as a breach of safety and aviation discipline, worthy of financial penalty. According to The Economic Times report, the new regulation, issued by DGCA chief Kemal Yüksek, introduces fines of up to 2,603 Turkish Lira (approximately $70 or Rs 5,700) for offenders. Turkey to fine passengers for standing too soon after landing It's a familiar scenario on virtually every commercial flight: the moment the wheels touch the tarmac, a chorus of seatbelt clicks erupts. Passengers leap to their feet, pushing into the narrow aisle in a frantic attempt to retrieve their luggage and be the first to exit. This behavior is so ingrained in travel culture that many have stopped questioning its safety implications. However, the DGCA has called attention to the real risks involved: Passenger safety : Abrupt movements during taxiing can result in falls or injuries, particularly during sudden stops or sharp turns. : Abrupt movements during taxiing can result in falls or injuries, particularly during sudden stops or sharp turns. Baggage hazards : Prematurely opened overhead bins pose a risk of falling items, potentially causing injury to seated passengers. : Prematurely opened overhead bins pose a risk of falling items, potentially causing injury to seated passengers. Emergency interference : In the event of a sudden emergency or pilot communication, standing passengers can obstruct crew members and emergency protocols. : In the event of a sudden emergency or pilot communication, standing passengers can obstruct crew members and emergency protocols. Flight delays and disruptions: Disorderly deplaning may delay aircraft turnaround and cause issues for connecting flights. The Turkish aviation authority now argues that standing early is not just rude—it's dangerous and disruptive. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now New Turkish aviation rule: $70 fine for rushing the aisle According to reports, the new policy was introduced in early 2025 through an official communication from Kemal Yüksek, head of the DGCA. The directive states that any passenger who: Unbuckles their seatbelt while the plane is still taxiing, Opens overhead bins before the aircraft has come to a complete stop at the gate, Pushes ahead of others in line, ignoring disembarkation order, will be subject to penalties under existing civil aviation codes. The fine for violations has been capped at 2,603 Turkish Lira, or approximately $70 (Rs 5,700)—a figure calibrated to be significant enough to act as a deterrent, yet not excessively punitive. Turkey's in-flight fine rule: Here's how it will be enforced The success of such a regulation hinges on enforcement, which raises logistical questions: Monitoring : Flight crews will be trained to monitor and report violations as they occur. Surveillance footage may also be reviewed in extreme cases. : Flight crews will be trained to monitor and report violations as they occur. Surveillance footage may also be reviewed in extreme cases. Reporting protocol : Airlines are required to submit incident reports to the DGCA if passengers violate the rule. : Airlines are required to submit incident reports to the DGCA if passengers violate the rule. Issuance of fines : Once reported, the DGCA will issue administrative fines to passengers, potentially via the contact information provided during ticket booking. : Once reported, the DGCA will issue administrative fines to passengers, potentially via the contact information provided during ticket booking. Appeals process: A provision is being developed for passengers to contest fines if they believe they were wrongly accused. According to The Economic Times report, Turkish carriers such as Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and AnadoluJet are expected to begin rolling out onboard announcements and training sessions to inform passengers and crew. Is Turkey leading a new global trend While Turkey is among the first countries to monetize penalties for post-landing misconduct, the issue of unruly passenger behavior has been on the rise globally: FAA (United States): The Federal Aviation Administration recorded over 2,000 incidents of unruly passengers in 2023 alone, prompting fines exceeding $8 million. The recorded over 2,000 incidents of unruly passengers in 2023 alone, prompting fines exceeding $8 million. European Union: EU aviation regulators have discussed uniform penalties for various onboard disruptions, including non-compliance with crew instructions. EU aviation regulators have discussed uniform penalties for various onboard disruptions, including non-compliance with crew instructions. India and UAE: Authorities in these countries have urged stricter action against in-flight misconduct but have yet to implement fines for post-landing behavior. Given these global developments, Turkey's initiative may serve as a template for future policies elsewhere. International aviation bodies such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and ICAO may also weigh in if such practices gain traction across nations. Public reaction: Necessary regulation or overreach The Turkish public and global travel community are divided on the directive. Social media platforms have become hotbeds of debate: Supporters argue: 'Finally, someone is doing something about the chaos. It's dangerous and selfish behavior.' 'This will teach frequent offenders to be more considerate of others.' Critics claim: 'Fining passengers for standing up is overkill. The airlines should focus on better communication.' 'There are bigger problems in aviation—this seems like a distraction.' Despite the mixed reception, surveys conducted by Turkish travel blogs indicate that over 58% of passengers support the measure, especially if it leads to safer and more orderly deplaning. Airline responsibility: Educating before penalising Experts believe that for the policy to succeed, airlines must emphasize education over punishment—at least initially. Suggested approaches include: Updated announcements: Clear in-flight instructions in multiple languages before landing. Clear in-flight instructions in multiple languages before landing. Onboard videos: Short clips explaining the safety rationale behind waiting until full stop. Short clips explaining the safety rationale behind waiting until full stop. First-time warnings: Allowing a one-time warning for violators before issuing fines. Such proactive steps could ensure that the rule is seen as a means to enhance safety—not as a mere revenue tool. Cultural implications: Challenging the norm of impatience This policy also represents a cultural shift. In an age where immediacy is often rewarded, waiting for one's turn—even in an airplane aisle—goes against the grain of modern impatience. The DGCA's stance sends a clear message: Civility and discipline matter, even in mundane moments. Turkey's approach could influence not only airline policy but also traveler mindset. If successful, it could help re-establish norms of mutual respect, especially in crowded, shared spaces like airplanes.
