DGCA Orders Airlines to Enhance Passenger Care Amid Airspace Restrictions
The Voice of Canada-The Voice of Chandigarh News
In response to recent international airspace closures and overflight restrictions, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued mandatory directives for all Indian airline operators to enhance passenger handling procedures. The move comes as flight durations extend and technical stops become more frequent due to altered routes.
The DGCA emphasized that these measures are essential to ensure passenger comfort, safety, and regulatory compliance during this period of operational disruption.
Key Measures Announced:
- Transparent Communication:
Airlines must proactively update passengers about route changes, increased travel times, and any necessary technical halts. Notifications must be provided at check-in, during boarding, and via digital alerts. - Enhanced In-Flight Services:
Carriers are required to adjust catering services to match the extended block times, ensuring ample food, beverages, and special meals are available throughout the journey, including during technical stops. - Medical Readiness:
Airlines must maintain sufficient medical supplies onboard and confirm emergency medical service availability at designated technical halt airports. - Customer Support Preparedness:
Call centers and customer service teams must be equipped to manage delays, missed connections, and deliver assistance or compensation in line with applicable regulations. - Operational Coordination:
Effective coordination must be maintained across flight operations, customer support, ground handling, inflight services, and medical partners to ensure smooth handling of extended flights.
The DGCA has warned that failure to comply with these directives could result in regulatory action under the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR). The new measures are effective immediately and will remain in force until further notice.
