DGCA Collaborates with ICAO and EASA on Advanced Air Mobility Frameworks

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is engaging with international aviation authorities, including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), to develop regulatory frameworks for advanced air mobility technologies. This initiative focuses on electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft and unmanned aviation systems.

DGCA Chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai stated that six working groups have been established to address various aspects of advanced air mobility. These groups are tasked with developing guidelines for vertiports, eVTOL certification, crew licensing, airport operator permits, air traffic management, and maintenance protocols. Reports from these groups are being published periodically.

In a separate development, the DGCA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EASA on July 5, 2023. This agreement covers cooperation in certification and environmental standards, personnel licensing, training, air traffic management, and Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM). It also facilitates information sharing on technological developments and collaborative efforts in organizing conferences and training programs.

These actions aim to establish consistent standards and integrate advanced air mobility technologies into India's aviation sector while maintaining safety as a priority.