Regulator’s Seasonal Plan Triggers Debate Between Airlines and Pilot Bodies

Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma
New Delhi

A fresh controversy is unfolding in India’s civil aviation sector as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is reportedly reviewing exemptions granted under Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) ahead of the peak summer travel season.


The proposed review has intensified friction between airlines seeking operational flexibility and pilot associations warning against potential safety risks linked to fatigue.


Why the Issue Has Surfaced


With passenger traffic expected to surge during the Summer Schedule 2025, airlines are preparing to expand flight operations. To manage operational strain, some carriers have requested limited relaxations in FDTL norms.


However, pilot unions argue that:


Long-haul and international sectors already involve extended duty hours.


Fatigue levels are rising due to compressed and stretched rosters.
Any relaxation in duty rules may compromise flight safety.


Key Data Points at a Glance
Major airlines are functioning with limited pilot strength.


Several routes now exceed 10 hours of flight duration.
The Summer Schedule 2025 proposes a significant rise in overall flights.
Airlines contend that geopolitical tensions and restricted international airspace have lengthened flight paths, thereby impacting crew deployment. They argue that temporary exemptions could ease capacity constraints and prevent sharp fare increases during the peak season.


Safety vs. Operational Pressure
Pilot associations have taken a firm and public stance, stating that:
“Safety cannot be compromised under any circumstances.”


They emphasize that prolonged duty hours contribute to physical and mental exhaustion, potentially increasing operational risks.
Aviation experts note that fatigue risk management has become a global priority, particularly as airlines scale up operations in a competitive, high-demand environment.


DGCA’s Balancing Act
Sources indicate that the DGCA is consulting all stakeholders before reaching a final decision. The regulator’s stated objective remains clear:


Ensure passenger convenience and operational continuity, while
Maintaining uncompromised aviation safety standards.


What Lies Ahead
As summer travel demand builds momentum, the debate over pilot duty exemptions has emerged as a defining issue for India’s aviation sector. The DGCA’s final decision will likely shape not only airline scheduling strategies but also determine how safely and smoothly passengers travel during the busiest months of the year.