Picture Credits: PTI
New Delhi: On December 5, 2024, Rajya Sabha passed the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024, signaling a transformative leap for India’s aviation sector. This landmark legislation replaces the nearly 90-year-old Aircraft Act of 1934 with a modern, dynamic framework designed to meet the evolving demands of the aviation industry. The Act, which prioritizes safety, innovation, and economic empowerment, lays the basis for India’s rise to prominence in the global aviation sector.
The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024: What Makes It a New Era?
1. Strengthening Supervision Organizations
The Act gives important regulatory organizations more authority, which revitalizes India’s aviation ecosystem:
- The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is responsible for safety monitoring, licensing, and regulatory compliance.
- The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) ensures strict aviation security measures.
- Aircraft Accidents Investigation Bureau (AAIB) investigates events and makes safety recommendations.
According to the Act, these authorities are directly monitored by the central government, guaranteeing accountability and efficiency in handling the complexities of a fast expanding sector.
2. Encouraging Domestic Manufacturing
The bill encourages indigenous aircraft design, manufacture, and maintenance in line with the “Make in India” campaign. This strengthens domestic innovation, lessens reliance on imports, and generates thousands of employment throughout the aviation supply chain.
3. Updating Security and Safety
The law imposes severe penalties, like imprisonment and fines of up to ₹1 crore, for significant offenses like careless flying or disobeying safety regulations. It enhances India’s reputation as a leader in aviation security and safety by using international best practices.
4. Increasing the Authority of Government
The central government has been given more authority to:
- In times of public safety emergency, issue emergency directives.
- To guarantee safe operations, control construction and obstacles close to aerodromes.
- Address the risks influencing aircraft safety right now.
5. Simplifying Dispute Resolution.
A streamlined appeals mechanism has been implemented to promote justice in settling disputes over regulatory fines. This encourages accountability among aviation experts.
6. Complying with Global Guidelines
By complying to international accords such as the 1944 Chicago Convention, the Act facilitates India’s integration into global aviation networks. This action strengthens India’s status as a competitive global aviation player.
Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu took to his X account (formerly known as twitter) “Proud moment for India as the #BharatiyaVayuyanVidheyak, 2024, passed in Rajya Sabha today! This landmark legislation replaces the Aircraft Act, 1934, aligning our aviation sector with global standards and paving the way for modernization and progress. With strengthened regulatory frameworks, ease of doing business, and a boost to domestic manufacturing, this is a transformative step for Indian aviation. Grateful to Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji, Hon’ble Chairman Sh. Jagdeep Dhankar Ji, Hon’ble Speaker Shri @ombirlakot Ji, and all Members of Parliament for their support.”
Implications for the Future of Indian Aviation
Safer Skies, Reliable Travel
By enabling organizations such as the DGCA and BCAS, the legislation aims to improve safety measures and operational efficiency, resulting in a better travel experience.
Economic Growth and Job Creation
The emphasis on domestic manufacturing not only drives industrial self-reliance but also generates employment in high-tech sectors like aircraft design and maintenance, fueling broader economic growth.
Low-Cost and All-Inclusive Air Travel
By encouraging competitive pricing and lowering operating costs, the Act supports regional connectivity initiatives like UDAN, which seek to increase air travel accessibility for India’s expanding middle class.
A Visionary Framework
The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024, is a regulatory update that reflects India’s aviation ambitions. It bridges existing gaps and addresses future difficulties. Minister Kinjarapu stated that this Act is India’s road map to aviation excellence, ensuring safe and progressive skies. India’s move from old laws to a future-ready aviation framework demonstrates its intentions and readiness to welcome in a new era of prosperity, security, and global prominence.
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