The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is set to streamline the norms for wet-leased aircraft operations by Indian airlines. This move aims to enhance operational flexibility, improve fleet management, and ensure better service delivery within the aviation sector. Wet leasing, which involves an airline leasing an aircraft along with its crew, maintenance, and insurance, has become an increasingly popular solution for airlines to meet demand fluctuations or expand their network without committing to new aircraft purchases.
The revised norms are expected to provide clearer guidelines on the use of wet-leased aircraft, addressing safety, operational standards, and compliance with international aviation regulations. By simplifying these regulations, the DGCA seeks to make it easier for airlines to manage seasonal or unexpected spikes in demand while maintaining high safety and quality standards.
This initiative will likely have a significant impact on the Indian aviation industry, enabling airlines to operate with greater efficiency. It also offers the potential for airlines to diversify their fleets, bringing in aircraft types that may not be part of their long-term strategy but are required for short-term growth or to meet customer demands.
Overall, the DGCA’s effort to streamline wet-lease regulations is a step toward improving the flexibility and competitiveness of Indian airlines in the global aviation market.