DGCA Introduces Zero-Tolerance Policy, Imposes 30-Day Ban For In-Flight Misconduct

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India is set to implement stricter regulations aimed at managing unruly passengers. Under the new proposals, airlines will have the authority to impose flying bans of up to 30 days on individuals showing unruly behavior. This draft amendment to the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) is currently open for public input until March 16.

Adopting a 'zero tolerance' approach, the DGCA seeks to strengthen passenger safety and address a rise in incidents of misconduct on flights. The initiative is designed to preserve order and discipline during air travel. DGCA chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai emphasized that airlines are responsible for developing effective protocols to handle unruly behavior, applicable not just in-flight but also throughout the airport.

As reported by The Times of India, airlines will need to create systems for identifying and reporting misbehaving passengers. Any misconduct noticed during check-in, in lounges, at boarding gates, or within the terminal will be swiftly communicated to law enforcement.

Zero-Tolerance Policy Classifies Unruly Behavior In Four Levels

The draft also outlines the procedures airlines should adopt in response to such incidents while in the air. Airlines are required to establish protocols for managing unruly passengers both within the airport and during flights. These standard operating procedures (SOPs) need to be distributed throughout the organization, particularly to staff members who have direct interactions with passengers.

The draft classifies unruly behavior into four distinct levels:

- Level 1: Minor infractions such as inappropriate gestures, verbal abuse, and disruptive conduct linked to intoxication. - Level 2: Acts of physical aggression, including pushing, hitting, or sexual harassment. - Level 3: Threatening actions, such as tampering with aircraft systems or engaging in severe physical violence. - Level 4: Actions aimed at encroaching upon the flight crew's secure area.

The DGCA recommends that each airline develop and implement an SOP for managing unruly passengers and report incidents to the DGCA, sharing relevant information with all necessary stakeholders.