PARLIAMENT PANEL FLAGS AVIATION SAFETY GAPS, CALLS FOR FULL AUTONOMY TO DGCA
India’s aviation sector is expanding at one of the fastest rates globally, but its regulatory framework has not kept pace with this growth. Recently the Department related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport Tourism and Culture presented its 380th Report on ‘Overall Review of Safety in the Civil Aviation Sector’. This report has raised concerns about safety errors and organisational weakness of DGCA ( Directorate General of Civil Aviation).
It has also suggested to match the international benchmark in terms to match safety standards we recommend to grant full autonomy to DGCA.
Key Aspects
- Due to almost 50% of DGCA positions still unfilled, it reduces its ability to inspect and monitor
- Significant manpower shortages also exist in BCAS and the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
- Slow recruitment through UPSC delays the filling of critical technical roles.
- The panel recommended direct recruitment from premier institutes and more flexible hiring policies.
- Aviation safety oversight is at risk due to rising passenger traffic, fleet expansion, and airport projectsoutpacing regulatory capacity.
Legal Framework
- Under the Aircraft Act, 1934 and the Aircraft (Amendment) Act, 2020, DGCA has been granted statutory recognition.
- It operates as an attached office of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, with limited autonomy.
- Unlike FAA (US) or EASA (EU), DGCA lacks full financial and administrative independence.
- The committee suggested creating a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) with powers to:
- Recruit staff independently
- License airlines and pilots
- Conduct audits and investigations
- Exercise financial control like SEBI or TRAI in India
Conclusion
India’s Aviation sector not only demands independent strong regulatory authority but also need a regulator who keeps a check on industry growth, so granting DGCA can fulfill these requirements.
The Committee suggested granting DGCA complete autonomy backed with staffing policies along with financial independence is not just a reform but a necessity. The necessity to ensure safety of passengers and their trust and global credibility in Our Aviation safety standards.
