India’s aviation regulator, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has granted temporary relaxation in pilot flight duty norms for long-haul flights operated by Air India. The decision comes as the airline is being forced to take longer routes for several international services due to ongoing airspace restrictions in parts of the Middle East.
Due to restrictions over Iran and Iraq airspace, Air India has started routing some of its flights to Europe and North America via an alternative path passing near Egypt. This detour significantly increases flight time and operational complexity, prompting the regulator to allow limited flexibility in pilot duty hour rules.
According to sources, the temporary relief will help the airline manage longer flying hours and maintain scheduled services without major disruptions. The DGCA’s move is aimed at ensuring operational continuity while maintaining safety standards during the period of restricted airspace.
Air India has been adjusting its flight plans to cope with the evolving geopolitical situation in the Middle East. Aviation authorities are expected to closely monitor the situation and review the temporary relaxation once airspace conditions stabilize.
