New Delhi: Days after Pakistan closed its airspace for Indian Airlines after India took several steps against Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Saturday issued advisory for Indian airlines.
It observed that due to recent development, the airlines’ operations in India have been impacted due to significant rerouting of international and regional flights. The DGCA observed that the development increased block times as compared to scheduled durations. It also expressed the possibility of technical halts en route for operational or fuel requirements.
“In light of the above, all airline operators are directed to implement the following passenger-handling measures to ensure transparency, compliance, and passenger welfare that include pre-flight passenger communication. Airlines shall ensure that all passengers are proactively informed about the change in routing due to airspace restrictions. Revised total expected travel time (departure to arrival). The possibility of a technical stop at an intermediate airport,” the notification said.
It added, “Clarify that the stop is operational. Passengers will generally remain onboard during such stops. This information must be communicated at check-in, boarding gates, and, where feasible, through SMS/email alerts.”
The DGCA further said that airlines must make sure that catering uplift is revised depending on expected block time, which include technical halt. Among the include proper meals and beverages for the complete duration.
It also asked airlines to ensure medical kits and first-aid resources onboard in sufficient quantity. They must also ensure that during the journey there are medical support and ground ambulance availability. The airlines will also be required to prepare customer service and support readiness, which include briefing the call centre and reservations teams in case of likely delays and disruptions to the schedule.
