DGCA

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Context

• Logistics drone maker Scandron has received DGCA Type Certification for a drone that would enable efficient and timely delivery for companies using such unmanned aircraft vehicles in their supply chain.

DGCA

Establishment and Regulatory Authority:

• The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) was established under the Aircraft (Amendment) Bill, 2020, as the statutory body regulating civil aviation in India.

Accident Investigation and Regulation Maintenance:

• DGCA investigates aviation accidents and incidents to maintain aviation safety standards and regulations in India.

Licensing and Certification:

• It is responsible for issuing licenses to pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers, and flight engineers, including Private Pilot Licenses (PPLs), Student Pilot Licenses (SPLs), and Commercial Pilot Licenses (CPLs).
• Conducts examinations and checks for licensing purposes to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Proposed Transition to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA):

• The Government of India plans to replace DGCA with a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), modelled after the American Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), to enhance regulatory efficiency.

Operational Functions:

• Registration of civil aircraft and certification of airports.
• Formulation of airworthiness standards for civil aircraft and granting certificates of airworthiness.
• Conducting checks on the proficiency of flight crew and operational personnel such as flight dispatchers and cabin crew.

Safety Management and Accident Prevention:

• Implements Safety Aviation Management Programmes to prevent accidents and improve aviation safety.
• Investigates incidents and serious incidents involving aircraft weighing up to 2250 kg AUW (All-Up Weight) to enhance safety measures.

Role in Aviation Industry:

• Plays a crucial role in maintaining safety, efficiency, and growth of the civil aviation sector in India through regulatory oversight and operational functions.