New Delhi: Expressing concern over safety violations by operators of charter flights using small aircraft and helicopters for VIPs during the election season, aviation regulator DGCA on Monday warned of hefty penalties in case of any such safety violations.
The punishments include suspension of pilot licence, suspension and cancellation of operating permit and suspension of operations if any violations are detected.
The DGCA also issued an air safety circular on Monday, prescribing detailed guidelines for operation of small aircraft or helicopters during the election period. The circular prohibits carriage of unauthorised cash, arms, ammunition or narcotics onboard. The DGCA has sent the circular to the Election Commission, state governments and non-scheduled operators.
“Long flying-hours, large number of take-offs and landings, weather changes, lack of proper rest, hurriedly prepared helipads, frequent changes in itinerary, time management, highly stressed security arrangement, surcharged crowd, congested airspace, difficult and disturbed areas and lack of adequate communication pose serious risks to air travel during elections,” the civil aviation ministry said.
