The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has clarified its stance on weekly rest for pilots, stating that its decision to permit earned leave as rest does not bypass mandatory requirements.
The revised Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms, implemented from November 1 last year, significantly reduced pilot workload by increasing weekly rest from 36 to 48 continuous hours.
According to an affidavit filed by the DGCA, the decision to withdraw an earlier rule was taken to prevent flight disruptions and stabilise schedules, after receiving representations from several operators.
The affidavit added that the decision was taken without deviating from the provisions of the FDTL CAR dated 26.03.2024, concerning weekly rest.
The case was adjourned to July 29 due to paucity of time.
