NEW DELHI: The Lok Sabha has approved a significant new bill aimed at updating India’s aviation regulations. The Bhartiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill 2024 is designed to replace the outdated Aircraft Act of 1934, which has been modified numerous times over its 90-year history. This move comes as India experiences rapid growth in its civil aviation sector.

Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu introduced the bill, highlighting that it will streamline processes and improve the ease of doing business in aviation. One key feature of the bill is the establishment of an "efficient online mechanism" to handle public grievances, such as concerns about rising airfares. The goal is to ensure fair treatment for both airlines and passengers.

The bill also includes measures to regulate aircraft design and manufacturing, supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which promotes self-reliance. Additionally, the Civil Aviation Ministry plans to boost helicopter manufacturing.

The bill was passed with a voice vote in the Lok Sabha.

Bhartiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill 2024:

The Bhartiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill 2024 seeks to modernize India’s aviation laws by replacing the outdated Aircraft Act of 1934. This update aims to enhance industry regulation and support sector growth. The bill includes provisions for overseeing aircraft design and manufacturing, aligning with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative to foster self-reliance.

A major change under the bill is that, once enacted, the Radio Telephone Operator (Restricted) Certificate and Licence will be issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), part of the Civil Aviation Ministry. Currently, these certificates, which are necessary for pilot training, are issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) following a test.

Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die a day earlier than planned due to a disruption caused by an Opposition walkout. The Upper House, which was originally scheduled to meet until August 12, experienced several adjournments in the post-lunch session. When the House reconvened at 3:30 PM, Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed his concerns about the conduct of Opposition members both inside and outside the chamber.

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