DGCA to maintain strict pilot duty norms; rejects industry appeals for relief

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has made clear that existing pilot duty regulations will remain in force, rejecting requests from pilot associations to ease restrictions on working hours and restore weekly rest provisions.

Pilot bodies have mounted a sustained campaign urging the regulator to roll back temporary variations introduced to fatigue-management rules, arguing that current norms place undue strain on flight crews. The unions have specifically called for the reinstatement of guaranteed weekly rest periods and more predictable duty rosters.

However, the DGCA's decision to maintain the status quo signals that safety considerations remain paramount in the regulator's approach to pilot fatigue management. The agency has previously cited international best practices and accident investigation findings in justifying strict duty-time limitations.

The impasse reflects an ongoing tension between airline operational efficiency and crew welfare standards. Industry sources indicate that carriers have sought greater flexibility in scheduling to manage capacity pressures, but the regulator appears unmoved by such commercial arguments.

Pilot associations are expected to continue pressing their case, though any further regulatory changes would require formal intervention from the DGCA at a future date.