India orders safety study of NSOPs and uncontrolled airfields after crash.
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
India's DGCA is auditing non-scheduled flight operators after a fatal Learjet 45 crash; Minister Naidu aims to improve safety at uncontrolled airfields.
Key Takeaways
- •DGCA launched a special safety audit of all Non-Scheduled Operators (NSOPs).
- •The study follows the fatal VSR Ventures Learjet 45 crash on January 28.
- •A thorough review of safety protocols at uncontrolled airfields is underway.
- •The Ministry aims to boost smaller airline operations to ensure market balance.
India is tightening rules for private flight operators. Minister K Rammohan Naidu announced a new safety study. This move follows a tragic crash in January.
The DGCA is leading a special safety audit. They are looking at Non-Scheduled Operators (NSOPs). These companies run chartered flights instead of fixed schedules.
The VSR Ventures Crash
The study began after a fatal accident on January 28. A Learjet 45 owned by VSR Ventures crashed near Baramati. The crash killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others.
The AAIB is investigating the site. They will release a report soon. Early data shows the plane was cleared to land. However, the pilots did not confirm the message. Moments later, the plane caught fire.
Risks at Uncontrolled Airfields
The government is also studying uncontrolled airfields. Baramati is one such location. These sites do not have active control towers. Pilots must talk to each other to stay safe.
Minister Naidu wants to find safety gaps. He said the ministry will look at where steps are needed. This includes better training and better ground support.
Supporting Smaller Airlines
The minister also spoke about airline growth. He wants to help smaller carriers succeed. This follows recent delays at larger airlines like IndiGo.
The goal is a balanced market. The government may look at "too big to fail" rules. This would protect the industry if a major airline has trouble. For now, safety remains the top priority for all operators.
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Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
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