Aviation regulator increases pilots' licence renewal period from 2 to 5 years: report

In a bid to enhance efficiency of air operations, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday decided to enhance the period of pilots' licence renewal from two to five years,  according to officials,  and subject to the airlines and the cockpit crew meeting all other requirements like medical checks.

The decision was taken at a meeting the top-brass of the aviation regulator had with senior officials of all Indian carriers.

At present, a commercial pilot licence (CPL) needs to be renewed every two years, but in the US or the UK, it is issued once for perpetual use though there are regular proficiency, medical and other tests which the pilots have to undergo.

After the hour-long meeting, officials said the decision to enhance the period from two to five years was being taken only under the condition that the onus of carrying out all other checks and tests would lay on the airlines and the pilots.

Such a move would also lessen the burden on the regulator which is facing a staff crunch, they said.

Regarding pre-flight medical checks carried out by a registered medical practitioner, the officials said it has also been decided that activities like pre-flight breath analysis could now on be carried out also by a paramedic or a trained science graduate.

DGCA had sought suggestions on a range of operational issues especially those affecting pilots, including granting and renewal of their licences and medical checks.

At the meeting, it was also agreed that the aviation regulator would hold such periodic meetings with the airlines once every quarter to discuss a range of issues affecting their operations and take steps to streamline rules, procedures and pratices, official sources said.

Consultations would also be held with private non-scheduled operators and general aviation business officials later, they said.

Airlines have been complaining to the regulator about the frequency of medical and proficiency checks of pilots, saying the cockpit crew have to be taken off duty for a significant period to fulfil these legal requirements and it affects airline operations.

These periodic checks are mandatory requirements for pilots and cabin crew to retain their licence and continue with their professional activities.

Pilots above 40 have to undergo medical tests twice a year and it takes considerable time. Besides, these checks are conducted stringently by air force medical teams.