The Bhartiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam 2024 marks a significant milestone in India’s aviation sector, repealing the century-old Aircraft Act of 1934. This new legislation aims to harmonize India’s aviation laws with global standards, prioritizing safety, security, and efficiency.
Key Provisions:
- Establishment of Regulatory Authorities : The Act establishes the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and Aircraft Accidents Investigation Bureau (AAIB), each with distinct roles and responsibilities.
- Enhanced Safety Measures : Stricter penalties for safety violations, including immediate grounding of non-compliant aircraft, underscore the government’s commitment to safety.
- Central Government’s Authority : The Act grants the central government authority to regulate aviation activities, including emergency provisions and accident investigations.
Analysis and Implications:
The Bhartiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam 2024 is a progressive step towards modernizing India’s aviation laws. However, certain provisions, such as the central government’s authority to appoint arbitrators and assess damage and compensation, raise concerns about decentralization of power and potential arbitrary decision-making.
Key Challenges:
- Decentralization of Power : Balancing the central government’s authority with the need for independent functioning of aviation authorities.
- Addressing Loopholes : Ensuring the Act addresses common issues like flight cancellations, delays, and denied boarding.
- Effective Implementation : Ensuring the Act’s success through effective implementation and enforcement.
The Way Forward:
The Bhartiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam 2024 paves the way for improvement in the aviation sector. To achieve this, stakeholders must prioritize:
- Continuous Improvement : Monitoring and improving safety standards.
- Collaboration : Industry stakeholders, regulators, and authorities must work together.
- Safety and Confidence : Prioritizing safety and confidence in the aviation sector.
By understanding the Bhartiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam 2024’s provisions and implications, stakeholders can work together to create a safer and more efficient aviation ecosystem in India.



