Aviation Vacancy Surge: Navigating Challenges at DGCA, BCAS, and AAI

More than 4,291 positions remain vacant at Indian aviation regulators DGCA, BCAS, and AAI, despite recent staff expansions. The vacancies, particularly technical roles, haven't hindered operations, says the government. Efforts to recruit through various methods, including short-term contracts, are underway to address staffing needs.

Over 4,291 positions are currently vacant at key Indian aviation regulators, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the government stated on Monday. This shortfall hasn't hampered the functionality of these agencies.

Despite nearly 50% of sanctioned roles at DGCA being unfilled, ongoing recruitment efforts have resulted in 441 new positions, raising the number of technical roles to 1,063. Additionally, 84 operational posts were created at BCAS, and 840 Air Traffic Controller roles at AAI.

To counteract the deficit caused by non-joining of candidates and other factors, recruitment through short-term contracts is being pursued, ensuring that regular surveillance plans are not disrupted, the Minister of State for Civil Aviation elaborated in the Rajya Sabha.

(With inputs from agencies.)