The Directorate General of Civil Aviation, under the leadership of Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, is focused on simplifying regulations for airlines while ensuring the protection of passenger rights. Kidwai, speaking at the Indian Chamber of Commerce Aviation and Tourism Summit, emphasized the regulator’s efforts to strike a balance between supporting airlines’ growth and safeguarding passenger interests.
India’s aviation sector, among the fastest-growing globally, faces operational challenges such as extended flight paths and increased costs due to airspace restrictions, as highlighted by Kidwai. The tensions in West Asia have further compounded these challenges, leading to a reduction in airline services to the region.
Kidwai also addressed the impact of Pakistan’s airspace closure on Indian carriers, resulting in longer flight durations, heightened fuel consumption, and increased operational costs. These factors, including the necessity to carry extra fuel, have implications on passenger and cargo capacity, ultimately affecting airline revenues.
Acknowledging the industry’s current difficulties, Kidwai stressed the importance of policy backing to sustain existing carriers and foster a conducive environment for growth. Recent government initiatives, including the removal of fare caps and the provision of 60% of domestic flight seats without additional charges, aim to support both airlines and passengers during challenging times.
