Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

• Logistics drone maker Scandron has received DGCA Type Certification for a drone that would enable efficient and timely delivery for companies using such unmanned aircraft vehicles in their supply chain.

DGCA

Establishment and Regulatory Authority:

• The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) was established under the Aircraft (Amendment) Bill, 2020, as the statutory body regulating civil aviation in India.

Accident Investigation and Regulation Maintenance:

• DGCA investigates aviation accidents and incidents to maintain aviation safety standards and regulations in India.

Licensing and Certification:

• It is responsible for issuing licenses to pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers, and flight engineers, including Private Pilot Licenses (PPLs), Student Pilot Licenses (SPLs), and Commercial Pilot Licenses (CPLs).
• Conducts examinations and checks for licensing purposes to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Proposed Transition to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA):

• The Government of India plans to replace DGCA with a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), modelled after the American Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), to enhance regulatory efficiency.

Operational Functions:

• Registration of civil aircraft and certification of airports.
• Formulation of airworthiness standards for civil aircraft and granting certificates of airworthiness.
• Conducting checks on the proficiency of flight crew and operational personnel such as flight dispatchers and cabin crew.

Safety Management and Accident Prevention:

• Implements Safety Aviation Management Programmes to prevent accidents and improve aviation safety.
• Investigates incidents and serious incidents involving aircraft weighing up to 2250 kg AUW (All-Up Weight) to enhance safety measures.

Role in Aviation Industry:

• Plays a crucial role in maintaining safety, efficiency, and growth of the civil aviation sector in India through regulatory oversight and operational functions.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Which of the following statements regarding the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is/are correct? DGCA is a statutory body formed under the Aircraft (Amendment) Bill, 2020. It is responsible for investigating aviation accidents and maintaining regulations related to aviation in India. The Government of India plans to replace DGCA with a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), modelled after the American Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Select the correct answer using the codes below: A) 1 and 2 only B) 2 and 3 only C) 1 and 3 only D) 1, 2, and 3 Answer: D) 1, 2, and 3