• The Civil Aviation Ministry has amended the Aircraft Rules, 1937.
• It said the change will help reduce the administrative load on pilots and aviation authorities like the DGCA, fostering a more efficient and streamlined licensing procedure.

 Amendments

• The rules have been updated to tackle the concerns regarding the display of lights near aerodromes.
• The term ‘light’ now includes lantern lights, wish kites, and laser lights.
• The government’s jurisdiction over those displaying such lights has been expanded from a 5-kilometer radius to 5 nautical miles around an aerodrome.
• The government emphasised that it now possesses the authority to take action against those who display lights that disrupt the safe operation of aircraft or pose hazards to the operating crew.
• Should such lights remain unattended for 24 hours, the government is empowered to enter the location and extinguish them.
• It added that such cases should simultaneously be reported to the relevant police station for potential legal action under the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
• In cases where the source of the light is unidentifiable or if it relocates, the airport or airline operator is obliged to promptly report the incident to the local police station, which may initiate criminal proceedings.
• Another amendment that has taken place is the removal of the requirement for the validation of foreign licenses.
• The ministry stated that this change signifies an alignment of regulations with the evolving needs of the aviation sector.
• Besides this, the requirements pertaining to continued competence for Air Traffic Controller (ATC) license holders have been relaxed.
• Under the new regulations, ATC license holders are granted increased flexibility to accommodate situations with limited movements or watch hours.
• ATC license holders now must complete a minimum of ten hours of simulated exercises, including emergency scenarios.
• Following this, a skill assessment for their respective rating must be conducted within ten consecutive days of commencing these exercises.

Significance

• These amendments to the Aircraft Rules, 1937 represent a significant step towards strengthening aviation safety, security, and the ease of doing business within the aviation sector in India.
• These reforms will enhance the growth and sustainability of the aviation industry, ensuring it remains at the forefront of global aviation standards.

 Source- PIB