The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is the Indian governmental regulatory body responsible for regulation of civil aviation sector to ensure safety, security and efficiency. Its roles encompass registration, certification, compliance oversight among others.
About DGCA
- Statutory organization under Ministry of Civil Aviation
- Headed by senior IAS officer designated as Director General of Civil Aviation
- Oversees functioning of Airports Authority of India (AAI), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS)
- Works in coordination with aircraft manufacturer & airlines, aviation training institutes etc.
Organizational Structure
The DGCA has an elaborate organizational setup aligned to its multitude of functions:
- Headed by DG with Deputy Director Generals heading sub-functions
- Regional and local offices across India to enforce regulations
- Bureau system covering key verticals – Flight Standards, Regulations & Information, Airworthiness, Air Transport, Aerodromes, Air Safety etc.
- Support setup consists of legal, finance, administration departments
Regulation of Key Areas
Some vital areas regulated by DGCA across aviation ecosystem:
- Registration of civil aircrafts and administration of Aircraft Act 1934
- Preparation and amendment of policies and regulations
- Safety oversight through audits, spot checks; enforcement actions for violations
- Certification of airports, pilots, engineers and aviation training institutes
- Investigation of incidents and accidents; measures to prevent recurrence
- R&D analysis to upgrade safety standards in collaboration with specialized agencies
Recent Developments
Some latest updates in DGCA’s functioning:
- Digitalization push across areas like e-Governance modules, online portals and databases
- New regulations on alcohol test norms for flight crew, compulsory DGCA approval for drone use
- Fresh guidelines and checks on aircraft maintenance after multiple incidents
- Launch of GAGAN system jointly with ISRO to enhance navigational assistance
Data on Key Aviation Infrastructure
| Component | Numbers |
| Licensed Commercial Pilots | 8,500 |
| Operational Public Airports | 102 |
| Flying Training Organisations | 40+ |
| Registered Aircrafts | 2,000+ |
| Air Traffic Controllers | 1,300+ |
Recent Case Investigation
- In January 2023, DGCA imposed penalties of Rs 30 lakh on Air India and suspended license of the pilot involved in the notorious urination incident.
- DGCA issued show cause notices to Accountable Manager, Pilot-in-Command, Cabin Safety In-charge and crew members seeking explanation on lapses.
- The regulator has set up a 3-member internal committee under a retired District Judge to probe if relevant protocols were followed.
- Based on findings, further action will be taken against Air India for violation of Aircraft rules, IPC provisions.
Safety Action Initiatives
- DGCA has issued guidelines to all airlines mandating strict alcohol testing provisions for flight crew and adequate rest period between flights.
- It has revised pre-flight medical check requirements, forbidden crew members from consuming liquor 12 hours prior to departure.
- Surprise checks and stricter license suspensions norms in case of violations have been notified after the incident dented India’s aviation image.
Incident Details
- In November 2022, a visibly drunk male passenger allegedly urinated on a female co-passenger during an Air India New York-New Delhi flight
- The shameful act happened shortly after lunch was served and lights were switched off onboard the Boeing 777 aircraft
- The female passenger complained to the crew but allegedly did not receive satisfactory response, with just a blanket and pair of pyjamas offered
- It was only on landing that the airline urged the victim to lodge complaint with police
Investigation Updates
- Delhi Police filed FIR against the accused on charges of obscene behaviour, sexual harassment, IPC violations
- The accused Shankar Mishra was arrested in Bengaluru and terminated from his US-based firm Wells Fargo post the global outrage
- Delhi Police also issued lookout notice for senior Air India pilots and crew of the flight to join probe
- Statements of victim, eye-witnesses being recorded; CCTV footage being examined to establish sequence
- Internal probe by Air India is also underway separately as per DGCA guidelines
From rule making to ensuring best-in-class infrastructure and training, DGCA plays an integral role as the watchdog fostering aviation growth under safety parameters. With air travel expanding even further in future, its wider adoption of technology coupled with greater operational autonomy can position it to elevate India as a global standard bearer of regulatory excellence in civil aviation.