REGULATORY · MARKET STRUCTURE · INDIA
DGCA launches special safety audit of non-scheduled operators
The Hindu
15 Feb · 4:04 PM
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India’s DGCA initiated a special safety audit of non-scheduled operators (NSOPs) earlier this month.
Why it matters
A DGCA special safety audit creates a near-term compliance and operational risk window for non-scheduled flight operators, with potential for rapid corrective-action demands and follow-on regulatory actions. The audit also elevates scrutiny of flights operating to and from uncontrolled airfields, where oversight and safety management practices can become a focal point for permissions and constraints. The Civil Aviation Ministry’s parallel “thorough study” signals that audit results may feed into policy or regulatory changes affecting how NSOPs and uncontrolled airfields are governed. Timing pressure is immediate because the audit has already started, compressing response and coordination cycles for operators, airports/airfields, and service providers.
Implications
- • Short-notice findings can disrupt NSOP flight schedules and approvals
- • Higher compliance exposure for NSOP safety management and oversight gaps
- • Uncontrolled airfield operations may face tighter operating constraints
- • Audit outcomes can accelerate new DGCA rules or enforcement actions
Who is affected
- • Non-scheduled flight operators (charter/business aviation)
- • Operators and managers of uncontrolled airfields/airstrips
- • Aircraft owners and corporate flight departments using NSOP services
- • Aviation service providers supporting NSOP operations (MRO, ground handling)
Source
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