DGCA Collaborates with ICAO and Global Authorities on Advanced Air Mobility
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is actively working with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and other civil aviation bodies to advance the regulatory framework for the emerging field of advanced air mobility (AAM). Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, the DGCA chief, highlighted this effort on Tuesday, emphasizing that while innovation is crucial for progress, it must never come at the expense of safety.
Advanced air mobility, often associated with electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, is gaining traction worldwide. Several entities, including some in India, are developing these cutting-edge vehicles as part of a broader push toward more sustainable and efficient aviation technologies.
DGCA’s Strategic Approach to AAM
To facilitate the growth of advanced air mobility, the DGCA has established six working groups tasked with developing the necessary requirements and guidelines. Two of these groups—focused on vertiports and eVTOL certification—have already released reports in September 2024.
Kidwai explained that the working groups are collaborating with a wide array of national and international stakeholders, ensuring that the regulatory framework is built on a foundation of expertise and global best practices. The report on crew licensing is expected to be published soon, with three additional groups dedicated to airport operator permits, air navigation and traffic management, and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) practices.
Future Prospects for India’s Airspace Integration
The DGCA’s efforts reflect a broader commitment to ensuring that the national airspace can accommodate emerging technologies while maintaining the highest safety standards. As the world moves toward electric air mobility, India is positioning itself to be a leader in the adoption and regulation of these technologies.
Kidwai’s statement underscores the importance of maintaining a balance between innovation and safety. By working closely with ICAO and other civil aviation authorities, the DGCA aims to stay at the forefront of global developments and ensure that India remains an integral part of the evolving landscape of advanced air mobility.
This proactive approach to AAM regulation will not only streamline the integration of new technologies but also pave the way for India’s airspace to become a model for future urban air mobility solutions. As the field grows, the regulatory framework being developed by the DGCA will be crucial in ensuring that these advanced technologies operate safely and efficiently within the national airspace.