DGCA issues new safety rules for VIP and VVIP flights

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued new guidelines for aircraft operators flying VIPs and VVIPs , including governors, chief ministers, and other high-profile dignitaries. The move comes after the tragic January plane crash that claimed the life of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others, highlighting the need for stricter safety measures .

Under the new rules, flight crews must not be subjected to any undue pressure while operating a flight. Any last-minute changes in flight plans due to VIP requests must be coordinated through the operator’s management , not directly with the pilots or crew. This ensures that operational decisions are made without compromising safety .

For election flying , operators are required to appoint a responsible officer to oversee compliance with all directives from the DGCA, Airports Authority of India (AAI), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and the Election Commission . The officer’s details must be submitted to the DGCA before the start of flight operations. This person is accountable for ensuring that all safety and regulatory instructions are strictly followed.

The DGCA also specifies minimum experience requirements for pilots: the Pilot in Command (PIC) must have at least 3,000 flying hours for non-scheduled aircraft and 2,000 hours for helicopters. Operators must also respect the crew’s decisions regarding flight continuation, diversion, or aborting, without interference from VIP passengers.

Additionally, the guidelines emphasize proper weather briefings and strict adherence to safety minima before every flight. The DGCA cited past incidents where safety was jeopardized due to hurried helipad preparations, frequent take-offs and landings, itinerary changes, and highly stressed security arrangements.

These measures aim to ensure high standards of safety, professionalism, and respect for crew authority, balancing VIP convenience with the protection of human life and operational integrity.