DGCA proposes swift ban on disruptive passengers, Pg1

Key Highlights:

• DGCA proposes airlines can impose up to a 30-day flying ban on disruptive passengers directly.
• The amendment to Civil Aviation Requirement aims to streamline handling of unruly passengers.
• Disruptive acts include smoking, alcohol consumption on domestic flights, and tampering with emergency equipment.
• Airlines must maintain a database of banned passengers and inform the DGCA.

Detailed Insights:

• The proposed revision empowers airlines to act swiftly, prioritizing passenger safety without needing an independent committee's prior approval.
• The current process requires airlines to refer cases to an independent committee, which must decide within 45 days before a ban is enforced.
• Passengers banned under this provision will not be included in the DGCA’s No Fly List.
• The DGCA has invited comments from stakeholders on the proposed amendments issued under Rule 133A of the Aircraft Rules, 1937.

Key Concepts Involved:

• DGCA: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is the regulatory body for civil aviation in India.
• No Fly List: A list maintained by the DGCA of individuals banned from flying due to security concerns.
• Civil Aviation Requirement: A set of rules and regulations governing civil aviation operations.