India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has released a draft proposal aimed at strengthening regulatory oversight for foreign airlines operating in the country. The proposed framework introduces digital registration requirements, stricter accountability for local representatives, and a structured passenger grievance mechanism.
The draft measures are intended to improve compliance monitoring and enhance consumer protection within India’s rapidly expanding aviation sector.
Digital Registration Through eGCA Portal
A key feature of the proposal is the transition to a digital-first compliance system through the eGovernance of Civil Aviation (eGCA) portal.
Under the draft rules, foreign carriers will be required to obtain unique login credentials by submitting verified documentation related to their incorporation and operational approvals.
Access to the portal will only be granted after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation confirms the authenticity of the documents and validates the eligibility of the airline’s designated representative in India.
Local Representative to Ensure Compliance
The proposal also introduces stronger accountability measures for airlines’ local representatives.
Each foreign airline must appoint a local representative based in India, who must either be an Indian citizen or a registered Indian entity. This representative will be responsible for maintaining regulatory compliance and coordinating with the aviation regulator on behalf of the airline.
Incident Reporting and Operational Rules
The draft guidelines require the local representative to report any aviation-related incident to the DGCA within four hours and ensure that all operational details are regularly updated on the eGCA portal.
Additionally, airlines will remain legally responsible for any regulatory violations or lapses committed by their appointed representatives.
The proposal also introduces a new provision called “deemed suspension.” Under this rule, if an airline does not utilise its authorisation to operate at certain airports for four consecutive seasons defined by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the permission may automatically be suspended.
Passenger Grievance System
To strengthen consumer protection, the draft regulations propose a formal grievance redress framework for foreign carriers.
Airlines would be required to maintain a dedicated passenger complaint register and submit periodic reports to the regulator. The aim is to increase transparency and ensure that passenger complaints are handled more efficiently.
Summary
- The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has proposed stricter rules for foreign airlines operating in India.
- Airlines will be required to complete digital registration through the eGCA portal.
- A local representative in India must be appointed to ensure regulatory compliance.
- Aviation incidents must be reported to the DGCA within four hours.
- Unused airport approvals for four consecutive International Air Transport Association seasons may face deemed suspension.
- The proposal also introduces a formal passenger grievance redress mechanism for foreign airlines.
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