With campaigning for the 2014 Lok Sabha polls gaining momentum and leaders across the political spectrum preparing to undertake rigorous schedules, aviation regulator Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has decided to keep a close watch on the operational safety and air worthiness of chartered planes and helicopters.
On Monday, the DGCA issued fresh guidelines to charter operators and warned them that they could lose permits and invite penalties for non compliance of rules. This will include caution or even cancellation of license of pilots and engineers. Charter companies too could lose their license in the case of a serious violation, the DGCA said. These guidelines would be in force for the election period.
DGCA said election flying was a highly demanding exercise in terms of skill, professionalism and tact. Long flying hours, a large number of take-offs and landings, inadequate rest, congested airspace and language barrier were some of the challenges of election flying.
