Recently, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the aviation safety regulator, confirmed to retain the “Category 1” status for India’s aviation safety oversight post a detailed review.
The International Aviation Safety Assessment Program
The FAA conducted the International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) program intensively over one year. This involved rigorous physical audits, followed by an additional review in 2022. The program diligently focuses on three critical areas: the licensing of personnel, operation of aircraft, and the airworthiness of aircraft. These criteria are crucial for working out whether a country’s aviation safety oversight standards align with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) safety standards.
The FAA’s Findings about India
The FAA informed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) that India effectively meets international standards concerning aviation safety oversight. This adherence is based on agreements known as the Chicago Convention and its Annexes. India had last secured the FAA IASA Category 1 status in July 2018, and this recent development confirms its retention. Countries achieving the ‘Category-1’ status have demonstrated meeting the ICAO standards for safety oversight of civil aviation.
Significance of Findings for India
This finding significantly boosts India’s reputation as a safe and reliable aviation market. Further, Indian airlines maintain the eligibility to operate flights to the U.S. and to form codeshare partnerships with U.S. carriers. These arrangements contribute to enhancing trade and foreign investments. Besides, it underscores India’s commitment to upholding safety standards set by the UN aviation watchdog, the ICAO.
About the International Civil Aviation Organisation
Founded in 1944, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) is an expert agency under the United Nations. Its inception laid the groundwork for the standards and processes that facilitate peaceful global air navigation.
The Convention on International Civil Aviation, also known as the Chicago Convention 1944, was signed on December 7, 1944. This significant accord defined the fundamental principles permitting international transport via air, leading to the formation of the ICAO.
The convention encompasses various issues, including rights of aircraft in international airspace, registration of aircraft, safety standards, air traffic control, and environmental protection. One of ICAO’s objectives is to strengthen the planning and evolution of international air transport to ensure safe and orderly growth of international civil aviation worldwide.
India is among the 193 members of the ICAO, which has its headquarters in Montreal, Canada.