GS II – Governance
What is DGCA?
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is India’s civil aviation regulator.
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Established: 1927 (as a government directorate), restructured over time.
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Headquarters: New Delhi
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Parent Ministry: Ministry of Civil Aviation
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It is an executive body functioning under the Aircraft Act, 1934 and Aircraft Rules, 1937.
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However, there are ongoing reforms (e.g., the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill, 2024) aimed at giving it broader quasi-statutory powers.
Functions & Powers of DGCA
| Category | Powers/Functions |
|---|---|
| Regulatory | Lays down standards for airworthiness, licensing, aircraft operations. |
| Licensing | Issues licenses to pilots, AMEs (Aircraft Maintenance Engineers), ATC personnel. |
| Safety Oversight | Investigates safety violations, monitors airline operations and airworthiness. |
| Environmental | Regulates aircraft emissions and noise standards. |
| International | Coordinates with ICAO and other global aviation bodies. |
| Air Navigation | Approves air routes, coordinates air traffic regulations with AAI. |
Recent Reforms: Empowering DGCA
Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024 (Indian Civil Aviation Bill)
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Aims to modernize and codify aviation regulations.
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Proposes greater autonomy to DGCA in:
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Aircraft certification
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Licensing
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Regulation of UAVs and eVTOLs
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Seeks to reduce overlap with Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in radio certification.
Recent News:
DGCA vs Air India – Safety & Duty-Time Violations
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In May 2025, Air India violated Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) for long-haul flights.
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DGCA action:
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Show-cause notice to CEO of Air India.
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Removal of 3 senior crew scheduling officials.
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Audit into compliance with rest periods and pilot fatigue protocols.
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