AviationPolicy – DGCA Plans Digital Overhaul of Foreign Airline Approval System
AviationPolicy – India’s aviation regulator has proposed a significant update to the system used to authorise foreign airlines seeking to operate in the country. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has released a draft regulatory circular aimed at modernising the existing framework and strengthening oversight of international carriers flying to and from India.
The proposal focuses on replacing largely manual procedures with a more transparent digital process. Officials say the changes are intended to streamline approvals while ensuring that regulatory supervision keeps pace with the growing scale of international aviation activity involving India.
Subheading: Updated framework to replace earlier 2020 guidelines
The new draft Aeronautical Information Circular revises the regulatory structure that has been in place since September 2020. That framework currently outlines how foreign airlines receive operating permission under bilateral air service agreements between India and other countries.
According to the regulator, the revised document is designed to reflect current administrative practices and improve efficiency in handling applications. Authorities believe that updating the procedures will help the regulator respond more effectively to increasing international airline operations linked to India’s expanding aviation market.
Subheading: Digital platform to handle airline applications
One of the most notable changes in the proposed circular is the mandatory use of the eGCA digital platform for submitting and processing applications. The platform, developed by the DGCA, will serve as the central system for foreign carriers to apply for operating authorisation and submit flight schedules.
Previously, many of these submissions were handled through manual documentation and email communication. The shift to a digital interface is expected to reduce delays and create a more organised record of airline applications, approvals and regulatory reviews.
Officials say the electronic system will allow both airlines and regulators to track documentation more easily and maintain a clearer compliance process.
Subheading: Passenger grievance system included in new proposal
The draft framework also introduces a formal Passenger Grievance Redressal mechanism for foreign airlines operating within India. Under the proposal, international carriers will be expected to follow consumer protection procedures that align with the standards already applicable to domestic airlines in the country.
This measure aims to ensure that passengers flying on foreign carriers from Indian airports have access to consistent complaint handling procedures. Regulators believe the move will strengthen passenger rights and improve accountability among international airlines.
Subheading: Provisions for urgent operational permissions
Another key element in the proposed guidelines addresses situations where airlines require permissions outside normal working hours. In cases involving operational disruptions or urgent scheduling needs, foreign scheduled carriers may need regulatory approvals at short notice.
The updated circular introduces provisions allowing such requests to be handled more efficiently. By recognising these operational realities, the regulator intends to reduce delays that could otherwise affect international flight operations.
Subheading: Streamlined documentation requirements
The DGCA has also revised the list of documents that foreign airlines must submit while applying for operating approval. The updated process simplifies certain requirements while ensuring that essential safety and operational information remains available to regulators.
Airlines will still be required to provide details such as their Air Operator Certificate, operational specifications, safety oversight arrangements in their home country, fleet information and other regulatory clearances. However, the documentation process is expected to become more structured through the digital platform.
In addition, the draft circular proposes allowing foreign airlines to make limited revisions to their approved flight schedules without seeking fresh prior approval from the DGCA. These changes would be permitted provided the airlines update the necessary information and submit required documents through the eGCA system.
The aviation regulator has invited comments and suggestions from industry stakeholders, including airlines and aviation organisations. Feedback on the draft proposal will be accepted until April 9, after which the DGCA will review the responses before finalising the updated regulatory framework.