Pilot Rest Rules Debate: A Safety Concern or Operational Necessity?

India's decision to ease pilot rest rules due to flight cancellations raises safety concerns. IFALPA's head emphasizes the risk of fatigue, advocating for global pilot fatigue standards. The exemption granted to IndiGo for night-duty rules highlights regional regulatory inconsistencies impacting pilot safety and staffing issues.

India's decision to relax strict pilot rest regulations, following a spate of flight cancellations by its largest airline, IndiGo, is under scrutiny from global aviation stakeholders. Concerns about pilot fatigue and flight safety are being raised, as thousands of passengers face unexpected disruptions.

IndiGo, commanding about 65% of India's domestic market, found itself unprepared for a deadline to enforce new rules on pilot rest, leading to significant flight cancellations. The country's aviation regulator exempted IndiGo from adhering to these rules, drawing criticism from international pilot unions and safety advocates.

IFALPA President Captain Ron Hay criticized India's exemption decision, citing a lack of scientific basis and potential exacerbation of pilot staffing issues. Calls for a global, scientifically-informed standard on pilot fatigue management continue to grow, highlighting differences in regulatory approaches worldwide.

(With inputs from agencies.)