Why Was Flight Duty Extension Granted for Air India Boeing 787 Pilots?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, Air India pilots operating Boeing 787 Dreamliners on European routes receive a temporary extension of flight duty time due to longer flight paths caused by the closure of Pakistani airspace. This change raises crucial questions about flight safety and operational considerations.
Key Takeaways
- Temporary extension of flight duty time for Air India Boeing 787 pilots.
- Extension due to airspace closure and operational reasons.
- Flight Duty Time Limitation increased to 10 hours and 30 minutes.
- Safety measures include mandatory monthly fatigue reports.
- One-time approval limited to nine flights.
New Delhi, Oct 31 (NationPress) The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has approved a temporary extension of flight duty time for Boeing 787 Dreamliner pilots operating on European routes. This decision comes in light of longer flight paths resulting from the closure of Pakistani airspace.
The aviation regulator clarified that this extension is necessitated by specific operational issues, particularly the need to adjust to extended flight durations due to the airspace restrictions.
Additionally, anticipated shifts in wind patterns during the winter months may further prolong flight times to various European destinations.
In this context, the Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) for two-pilot operations on Boeing 787s has been increased from 10 hours to 10 hours and 30 minutes, while the Flight Duty Period (FDP) has been raised from 13 hours to 14 hours.
However, the DGCA made it clear that the additional 30 minutes of flight time and one hour of FDP will only apply to instances where the duty period extends post-departure, not during the planning phase.
The FDP is defined as the total time from when a flight crew member begins their duty until the aircraft has safely landed and come to a complete stop.
This clarification follows concerns raised by the Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA), which urged the DGCA to reconsider the extension due to potential risks of fatigue-induced errors.
The DGCA stated that this exemption is a one-time allowance, specifically for nine Dreamliner flights on European routes, and was granted after thorough evaluation and adherence to safety standards for the winter schedule.
ALPA India expressed concerns that this deviation from standard protocols could suggest that the DGCA is prioritizing operator convenience and commercial interests over the essential goal of flight safety.
Furthermore, the DGCA mentioned that to assist in managing fatigue, operators will be required to submit monthly fatigue reports, no training flights will be permitted under this exemption, and pilots on these flights will receive an additional hour of rest.
Point of View
The DGCA's decision to extend flight duty time for Air India's Boeing 787 pilots is a pragmatic response to operational challenges. However, ensuring the safety and well-being of pilots must remain a top priority, balancing operational needs with stringent safety standards.
NationPress
31/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new flight duty time limit for Air India pilots?
The Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) has been extended to 10 hours and 30 minutes for two-pilot Boeing 787 operations.
Why was the flight duty time extended?
The extension was necessary due to longer flight paths resulting from the closure of Pakistani airspace and potential changes in wind patterns.
How does this affect pilot safety?
The DGCA emphasized that this extension is a one-time approval and has put measures in place to mitigate fatigue, including additional rest for pilots.
What concerns did the Airline Pilots’ Association raise?
ALPA expressed concerns that the extension might lead to fatigue-induced errors and suggested that the DGCA is prioritizing commercial interests over safety.
Will training flights be allowed under this exemption?
No, training flights will not be conducted under this exemption.
