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The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has extended Jet Airways' Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) by over a month until September 3, 2023. The renewal came four days after the Jalan-Kalrock consortium appointed an Accountable Manager for the airline. However, the DGCA clarified that the renewal is only for a limited period and aims to complete the ongoing Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP).
The Jalan-Kalrock consortium, the successful resolution applicant of Jet Airways, celebrated the AOC renewal, seeing it as a validation of the Indian Aviation regulator's confidence in the revival of the airline. Nevertheless, the consortium did not specify the exact expiry date of this AOC.
The DGCA clarified that Jet Airways must undergo re-certification to issue a new AOC. The airline must demonstrate compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements before it can resume flight operations. Critical prerequisites for obtaining an AOC include having qualified personnel with the necessary experience for various functions, airworthy aircraft, and acceptable crew training and operational systems.
Currently, the Jalan-Kalrock consortium still needs to take ownership of Jet Airways, as lenders are awaiting payment commitments from the consortium as per their resolution plan. The consortium has been blaming the lenders for causing delays in plan implementation.
In a separate development, Jet's lenders have approached the Supreme Court, seeking permission for the liquidation of the grounded carrier, arguing that the resolution plan presented by the consortium is not viable. The Jet Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Welfare Association has also raised concerns, filing a case against Jalan-Kalrock Consortium's Resolution Plan, deeming some of its provisions illegal.
The future of Jet Airways remains uncertain, pending the resolution of these issues and the consortium's ability to meet the requirements for re-certification by the DGCA.
These strict regulations imposed by the DGCA are necessary to maintain a professional market and to uphold standards set by the country's governing body on Air travel. They ensure each aircraft's safety and proper maintenance by providing the airlines with all critical steps. The DGCA has put a certification system in place to allow them to regulate airlines which are permitted to operate in airports.
The DGCA guidelines and regulations are crucial for airlines to operate safely and professionally. They cover essential areas like maintaining planes, training pilots and crew, and following proper procedures. By following these rules, airlines can gain the trust of passengers and others in the industry. These guidelines also help prevent accidents and create fair competition among airlines. In simple terms, they ensure that airlines run responsibly, prioritize safety, and provide good service to customers.
