The regulator states, “The exemption is to prevent passenger inconvenience, flight disruptions and downstream roster irregularities.”
It has also been stated that no flight training must be permitted in this sector. Airlines can implement this extension in specific flights on the international sector – Delhi to Copenhagen, Delhi to Milan, Delhi to France (two flights), Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, London Gatwick to Amritsar, Delhi to Zurich and Birmingham to Amritsar
The Airline Pilot Association of India has strongly condemned the move, stating that it poses a fatigue risk and thereby endangers passenger and flight safety. “The existing 10-hour limit is already on the upper threshold of safe fatigue management,” it pointed out.
This Boeing model does not permit reclining of the seat either, the association added. “This reduces the effectiveness of in-flight rest, particularly during long sectors.”
“The regulatory decision appears not only unjustified but also dangerously inconsistent with global safety practices. Extending duty hours instead of mandating an augmented crew, particularly so soon after a recent fatal accident, raises serious questions about the prioritisation of flight safety over operational costs and convenience,” they charged.
Airlines worldwide have responded to the restriction by providing additional operating crew to mitigate the increased fatigue risk, the association pointed out.
