Air India Requests DGCA Approval to Modify Flight Duty Regulations Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions
Synopsis
In a bid to adapt to rising geopolitical tensions, Air India has requested DGCA approval to modify flight duty regulations, allowing for longer flight times and reduced crew requirements. This move aims to mitigate operational challenges caused by extended diversionary routes in the Middle East.
Key Takeaways
Air India is requesting adjustments to Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms.
The request aims to accommodate longer diversionary routes due to geopolitical tensions.
Proposed changes include operating long-haul flights with a two-pilot crew.
The DGCA has categorized certain Middle Eastern countries as high-risk zones.
Air India's operational constraints have led to several flight cancellations this week.
New Delhi, March 12 (NationPress) Air India has formally submitted a request to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for a temporary adjustment in the Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) regulations, prompted by rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that are necessitating longer diversionary flight paths, as reported on Thursday.
The airline, which is part of the Tata Group, is seeking authorization to run select long-haul flights utilizing a two-pilot crew instead of the regular three-pilot setup, alongside a proposed increase in maximum flying time, according to a report from NDTV Profit.
Sources referenced by NDTV Profit indicate that the airline is requesting an additional one hour and three minutes of permissible flying time, raising the limit from 10 hours to approximately 11 to 11.5 hours.
Additionally, it has sought to extend the maximum Flight Duty Period (FDP) by one hour and 45 minutes, increasing the cap from 13 hours to 14 hours and 45 minutes.
Due to restricted airspace in certain regions and the ongoing closure of Pakistan's airspace for Indian airlines, carriers are being forced to adopt longer detours over the Arabian Sea, Central Asia, and parts of Africa.
These necessary diversions are significantly lengthening flight durations, escalating fuel consumption, and adding strain to crew duty limits, as per the report.
Recently, the DGCA has advised Indian airlines to steer clear of the airspace of 11 countries in the Middle East, designating them as high-risk zones.
For Air India, the decision to avoid flying over Iran and Iraq has significantly increased block time for various long-haul routes, leading the airline to cancel multiple flights this week due to operational challenges.
Additionally, government sources have indicated that Air India’s proposal is currently under review by the regulator.
While the broader aviation sector is facing similar routing challenges, the DGCA has not yet received a comparable request from competitor IndiGo.
According to the report, Air India did not respond promptly to inquiries regarding the request and any potential issues related to crew fatigue.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the growing challenges faced by Air India in the context of geopolitical instability. The request for regulatory adjustments reflects a proactive approach to ensure operational viability while prioritizing crew welfare and passenger safety.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Air India seeking a relaxation in flight duty norms?
Air India is seeking relaxation due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which are forcing airlines to take longer diversionary routes.
What changes is Air India proposing to the DGCA?
Air India is proposing to operate certain long-haul flights with a two-pilot crew and is requesting an extension in flying time and Flight Duty Period.
How has the situation in the Middle East affected Air India?
The closure of Pakistan's airspace and restricted zones in the Middle East have necessitated longer flight routes, increasing operational challenges for Air India.
Has the DGCA received similar requests from other airlines?
As of now, the DGCA has not received similar requests from other airlines, including IndiGo.
What is the current status of Air India's request?
Air India's proposal is currently under examination by the DGCA.
