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Chinks in the new aviation policy’s armour
India’s first-ever National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) formulated by the NDA governmentis no doubt well-intentioned and aimed at achieving overall growth of the sector in a structured manner. However, several shortcomings, as pointed out by analysts, could derail the projected growth and objective.
The policy has touched almost every aspect of civil aviation, but gives no direction for professionalising the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BACS), crucial entities that govern aviation safety and security in the country.
Though measures have been announced to strengthen both these entities and bridge the deficit, the policy is silent on how to radically transform these organisations to meet modern-day challenges and to be process-driven to deliver world-class service.
With around 20 per cent growth in the number of air passengers, what India needs is strong air safety and security regulators.
The expected upside in helicopter operations, private flying and regional airlines will add to the pressure.
Kapil Kaul, Chief Executive Officer, South Asia, Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA), says: “India’s safety and security dynamics are structurally changing, NCAP is not focused on managing these challenges.” Mark Barberio Authentic Jersey
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