DGCA ने एयरलाइनों को 'मुख्य उड़ान सुरक्षा अधिकारी' नियुक्त करने का निर्देश दिया

The primary objective is to enhance safety protocols in aviation operations by ensuring the implementation of safety measures and accident/incident prevention programs.

The 'chief of flight safety' will be responsible for promoting flight safety and implementing accident/incident prevention programs within the airline operations. They will head a dedicated “flight safety department” with competent personnel.

The DGCA is emphasizing this appointment due to recurring causal factors and systemic deficiencies identified in accident investigations. This indicates a need for proactive safety management rather than reactive responses after incidents.

Airline operators are now mandated to establish a dedicated “flight safety department,” appoint a ‘chief of flight safety’ and a “deputy chief of flight safety”. This will likely increase their operational costs and require them to allocate resources to safety management.

A Safety Management System (SMS) is a structured approach to managing safety risks. The DGCA directive emphasizes integrating an SMS, indicating a shift towards proactive and preventative safety measures rather than reactive investigations after accidents.

Appointing a 'chief of flight safety' can lead to improved safety culture, reduced accidents/incidents, better risk management, and enhanced compliance with safety regulations. This can also improve public confidence in air travel.

The establishment of civil aviation safety oversight can be traced back to the early days of flight. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India evolved from earlier regulatory bodies established during British rule. Post-independence, the DGCA has been responsible for regulating and overseeing aviation safety in India.

Recent years have seen increased scrutiny on airline safety practices globally, driven by several high-profile incidents and near-misses. The DGCA's directive aligns with a broader global trend towards proactive safety management systems.

The directive aims to enhance air travel safety, potentially leading to increased public confidence in airlines. While it may not have an immediate visible impact, it contributes to a safer aviation environment for passengers.

Aspirants should remember 'Chief of Flight Safety' and 'Safety Management System (SMS)' as these are directly related to the DGCA's directive and its objective of enhancing aviation safety.