Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu is set to introduce the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024 Bill in Parliament today, July 31. This new legislation aims to modernize India’s aviation regulations, replacing the outdated Aircraft Act of 1934, which dates back to the British era.
The bill is crafted to strengthen civil aviation authorities and align India’s policies with international standards.
Enhanced Powers for Civil Aviation Authorities
The bill proposes to enhance the powers of key aviation bodies, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). These bodies will be granted broader authority to regulate and oversee the aviation sector, ensuring stricter compliance and improved safety standards.
Key Provisions and Regulations
A notable change in the bill is the updated definition of “aircraft,” now broadly described as any machine capable of deriving support in the atmosphere from air reactions, excluding those against the Earth’s surface. This expanded definition ensures that a wide range of flying machines are covered under the law.
The bill also includes provisions to regulate the design and manufacturing of aircraft, supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative for self-reliance. It grants the Central government increased powers to prohibit or regulate certain construction activities, issue directives, detain aircraft, and enact emergency orders when necessary.
Control Over Air Routes and MRO Services
The Central government will have greater control over air routes, including the authority to prohibit flights over specific areas and restrict the entry of certain aircraft. The bill also lays out regulations for the development of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services, ensuring a robust infrastructure for aircraft maintenance.
Furthermore, the bill sets norms for the cancellation of licenses in cases of dangerous flying, provides guidelines for compensating passengers, and covers the detention, possession, and repossession of aircraft, offering a comprehensive framework for managing aviation operations in India.
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