India’s aviation regulator has announced stricter safety norms for non-scheduled flight operators after a high-level review of recent incidents. The move places safety above commercial pressure and strengthens the authority of pilots to take final calls on operational risk.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation said operators will now be required to publicly share critical safety information, including aircraft age, maintenance records and pilot experience. The step aims to bring greater transparency and help passengers make informed choices.
Under the revised framework, the Pilot-in-Command’s decision on safety grounds will be treated as final, and pilots will no longer be held solely responsible for systemic lapses. Senior management will face direct accountability for safety failures within their organisations.
The regulator will also roll out safety rankings for non-scheduled operators and intensify audits of cockpit voice recorders and flight data. These checks are expected to detect risks early and enforce stricter compliance.
Tougher penalties — including licence suspension and action against operator permits — have been outlined for violations. Meanwhile, the second phase of special safety audits will begin next month after the current review cycle concludes.
