DGCA to get more powers

Agra anxious over IAF planes causing damage to Taj Mahal

BY A CORRESPONDENT
July 2, 2006

The government has approved several proposals aimed at the amendment of the 1934 Aircraft Act, in an initiative that seeks to grant the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) significant regulatory powers. The proposals will help the DGCA exercise greater monitoring capacity in areas such as communication, air traffic management and operation of foreign registered planes over Indian air space.

Finance Minister P Chidambaram has confirmed that the legislation has yet to be finalized with the legislative department before it can be moved by the Parliament. The decision comes in the wake of major changes in the Indian aviation industry, with the opening up of the sector and the switching of CNS-ATM from ground-based to satellite-based technology.

Subsequently, the government will be able to gain control in several areas including standards of airport, communication, navigation and surveillance (CNS) and air traffic management (ATM) facilities. In addition, manufacture, possession, use, operation and sale of civil aircraft will also be covered through these proposals.

Further, licensing of the personnel engaged in air traffic control, enhancing the quantum of penalties for violation of the Aircraft Act and the security aspects of aircraft operations are also covered by the proposals.

In addition, aviation safety has also recently emerged as a cause for concern. Security has been emphasized in contrast with only safety, especially in light of the recently emerging hijacking issue. The civil aviation ministry is reportedly aiming at distinguishing between "accidents" and "incidents" to guarantee conformity with international standards.