India is planning to tighten oversight of foreign airlines. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is proposing stricter compliance and transparency rules.

Under the draft framework, foreign carriers will need operating authorisation from the DGCA before launching scheduled flights to and from India.

Airlines will also have to appoint a local representative in India to handle regulatory communication, operational matters and passenger grievances.

As part of the approval process, airlines must submit details on ownership, fleet, and board structure. In addition, they must provide information about maintenance arrangements and accident history over the past five years.

The operating authorisation will be valid for up to five years. However, the DGCA may conduct inspections and impose conditions to ensure compliance.

The regulator can suspend or revoke approval if airlines fail to comply with Indian rules. In addition, they may take action if airlines violate bilateral agreement norms or fail to maintain safety standards.

Foreign airlines must also establish a passenger grievance mechanism and submit flight schedules at least 30 days before commencing services.

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