Controversy Erupts as IndiGo Gets Exemption from New Pilot Duty Rules

The Airlines' Pilots Association of India criticizes the DGCA for granting IndiGo an exemption from stricter night duty rules, arguing it sets a dangerous precedent. The temporary relief has been granted amidst widespread flight cancellations and allegations of IndiGo's failure in proactive resource planning.

The Airlines' Pilots Association (ALPA) of India has expressed strong objections to the decision by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to grant domestic carrier IndiGo a temporary exemption from the newly imposed night duty rules. The decision comes in the wake of widespread flight cancellations and is seen as setting a problematic precedent.

The exemption allows IndiGo to bypass stricter flight duty and rest period norms, which aim to increase safety by extending weekly rest periods and limiting night landings. Despite the intent to mitigate passenger inconvenience, ALPA India argues that such a move undermines established safety regulations.

ALPA India has accused IndiGo of pressuring for this exemption due to their own planning failures, and cautions that this selective relief could lead to other airlines seeking similar concessions, thereby weakening the Flight Duty Time Limitation regulations. The DGCA's decision conflicts with previous agreements that no commercial interests would override safety standards.