The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024 is a new aviation law introduced by Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu in the Lok Sabha. This new law is designed to replace the old Aircraft Act of 1934 to update and simplify the rules for civil aviation in India.
Need for the New Legislation
The Aircraft Act of 1934 has been changed 21 times since it was first made, which has caused confusion and made the rules too complicated. The new bill aims to clarify the regulations, remove outdated rules, and ensure they match international standards for aviation.
Key Features of the Bill
- Repeal and Re-enact: The bill suggests getting rid of the old Aircraft Act and creating a new one with updated rules.
- Central Government Powers: It gives the government control over all aspects of aircraft operations, including design, manufacturing, maintenance, and safety.
- Accident Investigations: It allows for the investigation of aviation accidents and focuses on ensuring public health safety related to air travel.
Supporting ‘Make in India’
The new bill supports India’s ‘Make in India’ campaign by encouraging local aircraft design and production. It also includes measures to improve maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, which are important for strengthening India’s aviation infrastructure.
Response to Opposition
The bill faced some criticism because of its Hindi title. The Minister defended this choice, saying it represents a new identity for India while keeping the main content accessible in English.
About the Aircraft Act 1934
The Aircraft Act of 1934 originally set up rules for civil aviation in India. It gave the government the authority to make rules for aircraft safety and operations, leading to the creation of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The Act dealt with issues like licensing, aircraft safety, and accidents. Its main goal was to make air travel safer and to regulate commercial aviation. Over time, it was updated to include new aircraft technologies and security measures against unlawful activities.
