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New Delhi: Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu on Thursday launched the Electronic Personnel License (EPL) for pilots, making India the second country globally, after China, to implement this digital licensing system.
The launch event at UDAAN Bhawan in New Delhi was attended by Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol, Civil Aviation Secretary Vumlunmang Vualnam, and DGCA Director-General Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, highlighting the collaborative effort in this significant step towards aviation innovation.
By digitizing pilot licenses, EPL eliminates the need for physical endorsements or renewals. Pilots can securely access and present their licenses anytime via the eGCA mobile app, ensuring real-time verification and global acceptance in line with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) roadmap for modern aviation governance.
Minister Naidu stated, “Now, our pilots can securely access their licenses anytime via the eGCA app, with seamless real-time verification for global agencies.”
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First announced in December, the EPL system was initially planned to take effect from January 15.
EPL will roll out in phases, starting with Commercial Pilot Licenses (CPL) and Flight Radio Telephone Operator’s Licenses (FRTOL). Existing license holders will continue using physical copies until later phases.
The DGCA plans to extend digital licensing to other personnel, including aircraft maintenance engineers, in subsequent phases, further advancing the digital transformation of India’s aviation sector.
The implementation of EPL is expected to reduce administrative burdens, minimize the risk of fraudulent licenses, and enhance operational efficiency, contributing to safer and more seamless air travel in India.
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