Picture Credits: Flight Training Balkan Cadet
India: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India announced the implementation of Electronic Personnel Licenses (EPL). This plan, effective from January 15, 2025, is a significant step in transitioning from physical licenses to a purely digital system. The EPL seeks to modernize the industry by streamlining procedures while prioritizing safety, efficiency, and convenience for flight crew personnel.
Key Features of the EPL
The EPL is a digital version of a license that may be accessed securely via independently owned mobile electronic devices such as smartphones or tablets. Here’s what pilots and crew should expect from this transformation:
Paperless Access: Licenses will no longer be in a physical format. Instead, they can be viewed anytime through the eGCA mobile app.
Online and Offline Access: Users can check their licenses in online mode for real-time updates or offline mode using the last synchronized data.
Advanced Features: Unique license identifiers such as state emblems and a bilingual English-Hindi interface.
Device Compatibility: EPLs support devices running Android 5.0 or iOS 11 and above.
Mobile Sync: Each license holder can register their EPLs on up to two devices for backup.
Benefits for the Aviation Sector
The transition to EPLs is more than just convenient; it provides numerous advantages on various fronts.
Enhanced Safety
The EPL reduces the risk of fraud by implementing rigorous verification procedures and providing fast updates for licensing details. It also associates other crucial information with the license, such as medical certificates and linguistic proficiency.
Time-Saving Efficiency
With automation, the licensing process, including issuance, renewal, and verification becomes faster, reducing the time required for administrative tasks.
Cost Reduction
By eliminating the need for printing and distribution, the system cuts costs significantly. This also adds to environmental benefits by reducing paper use.
Global Standards
The introduction of EPL aligns India with international regulations, enhancing its credibility and showcasing a future-ready aviation approach.
Transition Timeline
The implementation of EPLs will occur in phases.
First Phase (Effective from January 15, 2025): Digital licenses will be issued for Commercial Pilot Licenses (CPL) and Flight Radio Telephone Operator’s Licenses (FRTOL). Any future endorsements or renewals for these licenses will also be reflected in the EPL format immediately.
Existing Licenses:
Picture Credits: DGCA’s circular (EPL General Layout)
Until EPL services are made available in later phases, holders of existing hard-copy licenses that are not included in the first phase will keep using their physical copies.
To facilitate a smooth transition, the DGCA suggests that users register for a unique eGCA ID, if they do not already have one. The process can be done using the DGCA’s eGCA portal.
What Pilots and Inspectors Should Know
Pilots are required to download the eGCA app and safeguard their login credentials. Familiarity with EPL features—such as accessing licenses in both online and offline modes—is mandatory for daily operations. Licensed inspectors will verify EPLs based on the ICAO-prescribed methods to ensure authenticity.
Furthermore, the DGCA has provided clear guidelines for troubleshooting and help. Any issues with EPL access or app operation can be reported by email to egcasupport@dgca.nic.in or by calling the support helpline at 1800-11-3422.
This digitization push allows Indian aviation to meet global standards while making flight crews’ tasks easier and safer. While passengers may not notice any difference, advances in efficiency will allow the industry to run more smoothly.
Check out this DGCA circular for further information.
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