Pilots move HC over extension of working hours

Mumbai: Pilot associations have moved the Bombay High Court challenging the Director General of Civil Aviation's (DGCA) decision to keep its latest rules regarding pilots duty hours in abeyance.
Pilots allege that reverting to old rules means longer duty hours, which can lead to fatigued crew and danger to aircrafts safety.
Last month, DGCA issued a circular, putting scientifically charted new rules and reverting to rules framed in 1992 concerning the flight time and duty hours of pilots on hold.
The pilots joint action committee comprising three associations of pilots from Air India, Indian Airlines and Jet Airways has challenged the ministry's and DGCAs action as it meant that their work hours would be lengthened, preventing them from taking longer breaks.
The pilots have stated that the breaks are essential to maintain alertness while in the cockpit. They allege that the circular appeared to have been issued under pressure from airlines which wanted to cut their operational costs following the fuel hike.
Division bench of Jutices S B Mhase and A A Kumbhakoni, which was hearing the petition early this week, adjourned the hearing till June 24 considering the seriousness of the issue, as it concerned the safety of pilots, passengers and also the people on ground in case of a crash.
19/06/08 Expressindia.com

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Categories: Indian Aviation- In General Jun 2008, Safety Jun 2008