Skies Safer, Crew Happier: DGCA’s Draft Norms to be A Game Changer for Aviation Safety Revolutionizing Cabin Crew Schedules

DGCA’s draft duty and rest norms for cabin crew propose maximum duty hours of 11-15, stricter landing limits, extended rest periods, and mandatory fatigue reporting systems, aligning Indian aviation safety with global standards. Stakeholders have until November 14 to offer feedback on these reforms.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued draft regulations proposing updated duty and rest period norms for cabin crew across Indian airlines. These draft guidelines aim to reduce fatigue, enhance safety, and improve working conditions aligned with international standards.

Maximum Duty Time: Cabin crew members can operate a maximum duty period ranging between 11 to 15 hours based on flight duration and number of landings, with strict caps on cumulative flight hours to prevent overwork.

Landing Limits: For an 11-hour duty period, up to six landings are permitted; this number drops progressively with longer duty periods, ensuring workload management during operations.

Rest Periods: Minimum rest between duty periods must equal the preceding duty span or at least 12 hours, extending to 18 hours for flights crossing three to seven time zones and 36 hours for journeys crossing more than seven time zones.

Fatigue Management: The draft introduces a confidential, non-punitive fatigue reporting system so crew can report tiredness or workload issues without fear of disciplinary action. Airlines must maintain fatigue records for regulatory review.

Rest Facilities: Requirements include dedicated rest areas with horizontal bunks for long-haul flights, separated from passenger cabins to ensure quality rest. Where bunks are unavailable, "basic rest seats" with reclining features and privacy provisions are mandated.

Night Duty Constraints: The night rest window is expanded from midnight to 6 AM, preventing consecutive night duties without adequate recovery and promoting healthier rostering.

Annual Flight Hour Caps: Limits include 35 hours per week, 100 hours in 28 days, and 1,000 hours annually, capping cumulative workload to international norms.

Implementation Timeline: Airlines and stakeholders have been invited to provide feedback by November 14, 2025.

Industry Impact: These regulations are critical as Indian aviation expands into longer routes and wider networks, calling for enhanced flight safety through crew wellbeing.

Expert Views: Aviation experts recognize the draft’s balanced approach but note ongoing legal discussions reflective of aviation medicine principles.

The DGCA’s renewed focus on duty and rest norms aims to set a global benchmark, ensuring safer skies and healthier work-life balance for India’s flight attendants.

Sources: Economic Times, India Today, Hindustan Times, DGCA official circular

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