DGCA to set up new aviation body

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is planning to set up a separate body called the Civil Aviation Authority of India to lay down the administrative guidelines for the industry.

The feasibility study for the same had started on October 12 and the report was expected to be ready in three months, DGCA Director General Nasim Zaidi said at an aviation seminar here today.

The Civil Aviation Authority would perform the administrative functions, while DGCA would continue with the regulatory role relating to the industry, Zaidi added.

He also said all the 37 countries in the Asia-Pacific region were working towards forming a uniform aviation procedure to facilitate seamless air traffic across the region. “As is the case in Europe, there could be seamless movement of aircraft in the Asia Pacific region...All 37 countries in the region have agreed to it,” Zaidi said.

As of now, all the 37 countries in the Asia-Pacific region follow different procedures when it comes to air safety and flying rules.

The Asia Pacific Air Planning Implementation Board will oversee such an integration is brought about in the policies and procedures of various countries regarding safety and technology, he added.