The Bhartiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill 2024, introduced by the government to replace the outdated Aircraft Act of 1934, has been a topic of discussion in the Lok Sabha. Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu highlighted the need for this new legislation, citing the numerous amendments made to the old Act over the years, resulting in ambiguities and contradictions. The Bill aims to regulate various aspects of the aviation industry, including the design, manufacture, maintenance, operation, and sale of aircraft.
Naidu emphasized the importance of restructuring the Act to address the current discrepancies and help the industry grow. He welcomed suggestions from other members of Parliament and stressed the need to align India’s aviation laws with global standards. The minister acknowledged the challenges faced by the sector, such as near collisions, flight delays, and cancellations, as well as the environmental impact of aviation emissions.
Congress MP Adoor Prakash raised concerns about the Bill, questioning whether it prioritized the needs of industrialists over those of the common man. He criticized the government for not focusing enough on climate change and highlighted the monopoly held by a business group that owns multiple airports. Prakash also expressed worries about high airfares, particularly for flights to Gulf countries, which burden low-earning workers, especially those from Kerala.
During the discussion, BJP member Rajiv Pratap Rudy provided a historical perspective on the development of air travel in India and globally. He praised the government’s efforts in introducing the new legislation, emphasizing the importance of aligning India’s laws with global standards to benefit the industry. Rudy also called for improvements in aviation infrastructure, particularly in regions like Bihar, where he advocated for the construction of new airports.
The Bill includes provisions to regulate the design and manufacturing of aircraft, supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative for self-reliance. One key element of the Bill is the issuance of the Radio Telephone Operator (Restricted) Certificate and Licence by the aviation regulator DGCA, which is currently done by the Department of Telecommunications. This change aims to streamline the process and ensure compliance with aviation regulations.
Overall, the Bhartiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill 2024 represents a significant step towards modernizing India’s aviation laws and addressing the challenges faced by the industry. By aligning with global standards and promoting self-reliance, the new legislation is expected to facilitate the growth and development of the aviation sector in the country.