PIL Challenges India's Aviation Transparency Standards

A PIL filed in the Delhi High Court calls for transparency in aviation safety by urging the publication of penalty decisions and investigation reports on DGCA and AAIB websites. The plea highlights the need for independent investigations and transparency in line with international standards.

In a bid to enhance transparency in aviation safety, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been lodged with the Delhi High Court. The plea seeks directives for the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) to make public all penalty decisions and investigation reports.

The plea, represented by Advocate Abir Phukan on behalf of Udai Vikram Singh Rathore, highlights incidents and safety concerns extracted from media reports. Citing mid-flight engine failures and dangerous goods violations, the PIL stresses an urgent need for thorough investigations under international guidelines.

Raising concerns over lack of transparency, the plea underscores India's non-compliance with the International Civil Aviation Convention's standards. It argues for the establishment of an independent investigation body, noting the current central government control over aviation bodies as a matter affecting impartiality.

(With inputs from agencies.)