Sunday, September 14, 2014

DGCA looks to regulate skydiving activities

New Delhi: Concerned about the increasing popularity of skydiving despite its “inherent risks”, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is planning to make it mandatory for individuals or entities carrying out parachuting activities to be affiliated with organisations it has approved and follow a prescribed safety protocol.

Parachuting and skydiving activities have predominantly been carried out under the aegis of the Army and the Air Force by using civil aircraft as permitted by Indian Aircraft Rules, 1937.

In order to ensure safety in parachuting operations, it has been decided to formulate regulations on the training and licensing of personnel and equipment engaged in such operations, a senior DGCA official said.

The Aero Club of India and other competent organisations, after developing acceptable basic safety requirements in line with the industry standards, are likely to be authorised by the DGCA to license personnel and equipment for skydiving.
The aviation regulator has given time till October 12 for stakeholders to respond and comment on its draft.
13/09/14 Shemin Joy/Deccan Herald
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