Air India has been issued a "show cause notice" by the authorities for not meeting passenger-centric regulations. A senior official emphasized the continuous emphasis placed by DGCA on the importance of providing excellent care to passengers in situations such as denied boardings, cancellations, and delays.
In 2010, DGCA introduced the CAR Section-3, Series M part IV titled 'Facilities to be provided to passengers by airlines due to denied boarding, cancellation of flights, and delays'. This framework has been regularly updated to ensure compliance with international industry standards.
The Civil Aviation Requirements (“CAR”): The CARs are issued by the DGCA in accordance with Rule 133A of the Aircraft Rules and establish the standards that need to be fulfilled prior to granting a licence, certificate, approval, or permission.
Since May 2023, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has been conducting thorough inspections of scheduled domestic airlines at major airports to ensure their adherence to these essential passenger-centric regulations. Regrettably, it was observed during these inspections that Air India did not fully comply with the CAR provisions. In addition to the recent notice issued to Air India, it is important to understand the context of passenger rights in India. To ensure that the public is well-informed about their rights, it is crucial to widely disseminate this information.
The Ministry of Aviation, in collaboration with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), actively works to raise awareness about the Passenger Charter of Rights through various means, including official websites, public awareness campaigns, airline communications, travel agencies and booking platforms.
The Passenger Charter of Rights, issued by the Ministry of Aviation, is a comprehensive framework that establishes the rights of passengers in various situations, such as denied boarding, flight cancellations, and delays. It serves as a foundation for safeguarding the interests of air travellers in India. Through various channels, the Ministry of Aviation and DGCA strive to empower the public by providing knowledge about their rights and promoting a culture of accountability and transparency within the aviation industry. It is the responsibility of both regulators and airlines to collaborate in ensuring that passengers are well-informed and that their rights are upheld at all times.
As a result, the airline is requested to clarify its non-compliance with regulations and take the necessary actions to rectify the situation. This action emphasizes the unwavering commitment of the DGCA to protect the interests of passengers and ensure a smooth travel experience. It is crucial for airlines to prioritize the well-being of passengers and adhere to established regulations for the betterment of the aviation industry as a whole.
Image Credits: X
Ⓒ Copyright 2023. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
