| PYQ Relevance: Mains: Q) Examine the development of Airports in India through joint ventures under Public – Private Partnership (PPP) model. What are the challenges faced by the authorities in this regard? (UPSC CSE 2017) Q) International civil aviation laws provide all countries complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above their territory. What do you understand by ‘airspace’ What are the implications of these laws on the space above this airspace? Discuss the challenges that this poses and suggest ways to contain the threat. (UPSC CSE 2014) |
Note4Students:
Prelims: International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO);
Mains: Economy and Infrastructure; Civil Aviation in India;
Mentor comments: To put in place long-term efforts for our safe and secure future, we must break down the barriers between ‘Development’ and ‘Humanitarian Response’. Air Transport plays a pivotal role in promoting Economy and Tourism in India. India has an extensive civilian air transportation network and is amongst the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Presently, the Aviation Sector in India is facing serious safety concerns as Airline Management prioritizes commercial interests over passenger safety.
Let’s learn.
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Why in the News?
The Civil Aviation Ministry and the DGCA need a more human-centric approach in airline management, addressing pilot shortages, and prioritizing safety over commercial interests is crucial for the Indian aviation sector to thrive.
Challenges faced by Airline Services in India:
- Technical and Safety Concerns: The safety of passengers is being gravely compromised due to the non-provision of the Runway End Safety Area. For example, at Kozhikode’s Karipur Airport (Kerala).
- Despite reassurances from the Civil Aviation Ministry and the DGCA, safety issues persist, such as the deferred regulations on pilot fatigue.
- Resource Availability: The land resources needed by AAI [Airports Authority of India] for better landing and avoiding accidents are generally ignored or delayed by state governments.
- Nexus between private players and government: Lack of Coordination between Airline owners and the Government for the implementation of safety policies needs to be resolved. For example, the present Flight Duty Time Limitations Regulations where the deadline for their implementation was June 1, 2024, were not taken seriously by private players.
- Pilot Stress: Financial stress on pilots is also highlighted as a risk factor, with examples of past incidents linked to pilot suicide due to personal financial pressures.
- Recognizing pilots as human beings who require time with their families, the importance of providing two days off per week for pilots is essential to ensure their well-being and maintain aviation safety.
| Global Scenario and System Overseas: The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) introduced the Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) as a mandatory requirement due to the significant impact of fatigue on aviation safety. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation and impaired reaction times due to fatigue are major contributors to accidents and incidents. Countries like Japan, Singapore, and the United Kingdom emphasize fatigue management and rest periods for flight crew to mitigate these risks. Pilots in these countries typically have two days off every week to reset their body clock, especially after long-haul flights. |
Way Forward:
- Change the Priority: The Indian aviation sector faces critical safety issues due to a lack of prioritization of safety over commercial interests by airline management. The need for a more human-centric approach, addressing pilot shortages, and emphasizing safety is essential for the sector’s success.
- Need for Humanitarian Code: India should adopt the ICAO Annex 1 Standard which allows experienced Indian pilots abroad to return to India and utilize the present retired pilots for training and checks.
- Need for Updating policy implementations: Overcoming corruption, revising outdated rules, and focusing on transparency and brand loyalty are crucial for the sector’s improvement and the success of airline mergers.
