GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT

OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP. SAFDARJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI-110003
Telegram: “AIRCIVIL”, Telephone No. 24622495, 24622499, 24622500

Dated: 27th Sept, 2017

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR 05 OF 2017

Subject: Procedure to be followed to mitigate flight delays.

Civil Aviation Requirement Section 3, Series C, Part II and VIII stipulates that the
operator shall get the flight schedules approved by DGCA at least 30 days in advance and
operate services in accordance with the flight schedules so approved.

In order to ensure enforcement of the flight schedules, following procedure has been
laid down for strict compliance of all concerned:

a) Departure slots may be distributed evenly within an hour with not be more than five
departure slots in 10 minutes and total of 30 per hour.

b) Airlines shall file flight plan with scheduled time of departure as per approved
schedule.

c) Generally, the flight plan with scheduled time of departure other than approved slot
shall not be accepted by ATC. For such cases, alternate slot will be allocated by
ATC based on availability of vacant slots. To cater for non-scheduled/VIP/military
operations, airport operator in coordination with AAI may reserve slots for such
flights as per traffic profile.

d) Aircraft shall contact Clearance Delivery Unit (CLD) for ATC clearance not more
than 45 minutes prior to scheduled time of departure and not later than 15 minutes
prior to scheduled time of departure.

e) Aircraft shall contact Surface Movement Control (SMC) for pushback and start up at
least 15 minutes prior to schedule time of departure.

f) Approval for push back and start up shall be valid for five minutes only. Aircraft not
adhering to pushback clearance will go back in the sequence. Subsequent
clearance will be given based on available slot.

1
 g) Sequence of departures shall be decided by ATC based on the position and
readiness of aircraft approaching the entry point of the runway.

h) Aircraft shall complete all pre-departure checks and cabin procedures prior to
entering the runway and start rolling as soon take-off clearance is issued by ATC.

i) Airport operators shall prepare parking plan in such a way that no two aircraft having
departure within 20 minutes are parked on the same block of parking bays.

j) Airlines shall forward aircraft routing by 1800 hrs the previous day to Airport
Operational Control Centre (AOCC) so that aircraft parkings are planned
accordingly.

k) In case of weather related or emergency related delays, Watch Supervisory Officer

(WSO) shall be responsible for allocation of alternate slots.

l) Airlines not adhering to the approved time slots shall be liable to lose the historicity
in the next schedule except in the case of scheduled flights subjected to flow
measures during the capacity constrained period.

Note: The above provisions will not be applicable at Airports where Airport-
Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) has been implemented.

This supersedes the AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR 03 OF 2017.

Sd/-
(B.S. Bhullar)
Director General of Civil Aviation
To:

All scheduled airlines/Airport Operators

2
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP. SAFDARJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR 04 OF 2017

F. No. 23-25/2017-AED
Dated: 31 August 2017

Subject: Facilities/ Courtesies to esteemed travelling public at airports

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Air transportation is steadily becoming a major activity either for

business or leisure. Although the primary objective of all the
stakeholders is to provide safe, efficient and reliable air
transportation, the improvement in facilities and service standards
is much required. There is also a need to synergise the capabilities
and services offered by multiple stakeholders so as to create much
more passenger friendly environment in aviation. With the expansion
of airports, distances to check-in counters security hold area and
boarding gate has increased manifolds requiring passengers lugging
their carry-on baggage to cover long distances.

1.2. Most of the stakeholders involved in providing facilities to the

passengers at the airport have resorted to outsourcing of services
to vendors having high attrition rate, resulting in inability in to
provide quality services to the passengers. Further, the passengers
remain most unattended after the check-in is completed till they
arrive at the boarding point, which has caused increase in number
of passenger complaints in the recent past.

1.3. Air transport is a service sector which entails extensive interaction

of multiple stakeholder representatives with the travelling public who
hold the utmost prominence and so possess the right of being
given the best care for hassle free and comfortable travel. It is
imperative to strengthen customer service skills at airport level
1
 especially in areas of courtesy and behaviour by all stakeholders to
mitigate passenger inconvenience and make air travel a pleasant
experience.

1.4. In view of the above and also keeping the increasing growth in air
passenger traffic, the facilities for the travellers also need to be
upgraded which have been necessitated with the increasing size
and upgradation of the airports.

2. APPLICABILITY

The provisions contained in this Circular shall be applicable to the

following:

2.1 All Indian operators engaged in scheduled and non-scheduled air

transport services (both domestic and international) for carriage of
passengers.
2.2 All foreign carriers engaged in scheduled air transport operating to
and from Indian Territory.
2.3 All airport operators within Indian Territory.

3. REQUIREMENTS
In order to facilitate the passengers, particularly senior citizens,
expectant mothers, passengers with disability, first time travellers,
etc. all the stakeholder should ensure that the following
requirements are complied with:

3.1 Airline/airport operator shall ensure provision of automated buggies

free of charge for all senior citizens, expectant mothers and disabled
passengers in the terminal building to facilitate their access to
boarding gates located beyond reasonable walking distance at all
airports having annual aircraft movements of 50,000 or more. This
facility may be extended to other needy passengers on demand
basis free of charge.

3.2 Airport operators shall provide small trolleys after security check for
carriage of hand baggage (permitted as per regulation) up to the
boarding gate.

3.3 Airport operator shall adequately display information regarding

availability of automated buggies and small trolleys in the terminal
building a prominent locations including dos and don’ts regarding
the same. This shall also be published on the website of the airport
operator.

2
4. COMPLAINT REDRESSAL

All stakeholders shall devise a proper and effective mechanism

to redress passenger complaints within a stipulated timeframe.

4.1 Airlines shall display the details of their Nodal Officer and Appellate
Authority in a conspicuous manner at key areas of the airport
indicating their names, contact number and email addresses.

4.2 Airport operator shall also display the details of their Nodal Officer
and Appellate Authority in a conspicuous manner at key areas of
the airport indicating their names, contact number and email
addresses with regard to passenger complaints pertaining to
deficiency in airport service/facility.

4.3 Airlines/airport operators shall ensure that the contact details of their
Nodal Officer and Appellate Authority and passenger grievance
redressal procedure are published on their website and update such
information periodically.

4.4 Airlines/airport operators shall ensure that all the complaints are
acknowledged immediately to the complainant and redressed at the
earliest but not exceeding one month.

4.5 In case of non-redressal of the matter within the stipulated time frame
as indicated in Para 4.4 of this Circular, the complainant has the
option to take up the matter with DGCA at [email protected] or
with any other statutory body set up under relevant applicable laws
for resolution.

4.6 Data pertaining to passenger complaints shall be submitted to

DGCA before every 10th of the month for the preceding month in a
prescribed format given at Annexure I to this Circular.

5. COURTESY/BEHAVIOUR

5.1 Airlines/airport operators shall ensure that all their ground staff
engaged in passenger handling extend an extremely polite and
courteous behaviour towards the travelling public. They shall render
all assistance to facilitate their travel.

5.2 Airlines/airport operators shall ensure that all the ground handling
staff engaged in passenger handling undergo periodic soft skill
training for sensitization, courtesy, behaviour and procedures for
3
 assisting the passengers. The schedule of such training shall be
available on their respective website.

5.3 As all passengers are very important, valued and esteemed

customers, any incident of misdemeanour, discourteous behaviour
and harassment shall be dealt by the airline/airport operator on top
priority basis and shall be reported to DGCA in a prescribed format
given at Annexure II to this Circular.

5.4 Compliance of this Circular shall be ensured by DGCA through

Surveillance Programme.

5.5 Airlines/airport operators non-complying with above directions shall

be liable of penal action as per the provisions of the Aircraft Act,
1934 read in conjunction of Aircraft Rules, 1937 and other relevant
provisions of Indian Penal Code.

6. This supersedes the Air Transport Circular 01 of 2014.

Sd/-
(B.S. Bhullar)
Director General of Civil Aviation

4
 Annexure I

FORMAT FOR PASSENGER COMPLAINT DATA

Name of Airline/Airport Operator :

Month :

No. Nature of Complaint Date of Redressal Status

Fare Refund Flight Baggage Customer Disability Staff Receipt of Closed Open Remarks
Problem Service Behaviour Complaint

5
 Annexure II

FORMAT FOR REPORTING INCIDENCE OF MISDEMEANOUR/DISCOURTESY

No. Airline/Airport Operator Date of Incident Brief Resolution Action Taken Remarks
against Erring
Employee

6
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP. SAFDARJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI.

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR NO. 02/2017

File No. AV.14027/AAC/2012-AT-1 Dated: 23.08.2017

Rev. 1: 13.08.2018
Rev. 2: 04.02.2019

SUBJECT: PROCEDURE FOR OBTAINING PERMISSION FOR IMPORT/

LOCAL ACQUISITION OF AIRCRAFT

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Aircraft Act 1934, Section 5, interalia, empowers the Central Government to
make rules for regulating the Export/Import of an aircraft for securing the safety
of operation. The requirements for import of aircraft are laid down by Director
General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce, from time to time.

1.2 As per the order issued by Ministry of Civil Aviation and requirements contained
in DGFT notifications, DGCA shall issue permission for Import/Local
Acquisition of aircraft by Scheduled Operator, Scheduled Commuter Operator,
Non-Scheduled Operator, Flying Training Organisations (FTO), holder of
aerial work authorisation and will recommend to DGFT for issue of Import
License for import of aircraft for private use and for Central/State
Government/ Public Sector Undertakings.

1.3 DGCA also issues permission to individuals/Company etc. for Import/Local

acquisition of microlight aircraft, powered hang gliders and hot air balloons for
private use, hobby flying, joy rides etc. The relevant Airworthiness CAR
regarding Design, Manufacture, Registration and Operation including MHA
requirements of such category of aircraft shall be complied by the applicant.

1.4 The permission for import of aircraft, except in case of aircraft for private use
and Central/ State Government/ Public Sector Undertakings shall be issued
in two stages, namely “In-principle approval” and “NOC for Import”. The
permission for local acquisition of aircraft shall be issued in one stage as
“Permission for Local Acquisition”.

1
1.5 Directorate of Air Transport (DAT) shall issue in-principle approval/Permission
for local acquisition for all categories of aircraft in consultation with other
relevant Directorates of DGCA.

1.6 In case of import of aircraft for private use and Central/ State Government/
Public Sector Undertakings Import Licence from DGFT shall be required.
After grant of In-principle approval, a letter recommending issuance of Import
Licence by DGFT shall be issued by DGCA. All aircraft other than private
category aircraft shall be imported without the need to obtain an Import License
from DGFT.

2. PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Application

An application for In-principle Approval/ NOC for Import/Permission for

Local Acquisition of aircraft shall be submitted to Directorate of Air Transport
(DAT), O/o DGCA in the format as per Annexure ‘A’ along with requisite fees at
para 2.3 and following enclosures, as may be relevant for the category of
applicant:
i. A copy of Initial NOC issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation for the start
of Commercial Air Transport Services, in case of new applicant.
ii. A copy of the Parking Permission for the intended aircraft issued by
Aerodrome Operator. For Scheduled/Non Scheduled operator the
parking permission shall be from aerodrome licenced for Public Use.
iii. Document indicating the arrangement made for maintenance of the
intended aircraft to be imported.
iv. Compliance statement in respect of FDI as specified in the applicable
AIC.
v. Certificate from Chartered Accountant stating the Paid-up capital of the
organisation (only for Scheduled/Non-Scheduled Operator’s).
vi. A copy of Letter of Type Acceptance/Validation issued by DGCA with
current Revision/Issue of Type Certificate Data Sheet for intended
aircraft to be imported.
vii. A copy of Certificate of Registration, Certificate of Airworthiness and
Airworthiness Review Certificate of aircraft in case of local acquisition
of an Indian registered aircraft.
viii. Any other document to substantiate the information provided.

2.2 Issuance of Permission for Import/Local Acquisition of aircraft.

2.2.1 The aircraft to be imported should be meeting the criteria with regard to its Type
Certificate, age and other relevant mandatory requirements as laid down in the
applicable/relevant CARs.

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR NO. 02/2017, Rev.2 2

 Note: For any financial arrangements towards purchase/ lease of any aircraft
and for remittance of any foreign exchange for import/ Local acquisition of
aircraft, the applicable guidelines issued from time to time by Reserve Bank of
India (RBI) and/or any other institution/agency/department etc. in this regard
shall be followed by the applicant. DGCA shall not be responsible for any kind
of financial arrangements for import/local acquisition of any aircraft by any
means whatsoever.

2.2.2 In accordance with National Civil Aviation Policy 2016 “All aircraft being
registered in India from 1st Jan 2019 will mandatorily have to be GAGAN
enabled.” The Government has subsequently deferred the above date to
30.06.2020. Accordingly, the aircraft being imported for registration on or
after 30.06.2020 shall be suitably equipped with GAGAN equipment.

2.2.3 For import of aircraft for Scheduled/Non-scheduled Air Transport Services, DAT
will issue In-principle approval on compliance requirement under this circular
and relevant CAR. Subsequently, NOC (No Objection Certificate) for import will
be issued by DAT on the basis of certification requirements for inducting
intended aircraft to be imported on the Air Operator Certificate/Permit.
The applicant would be required to provide the following details at the time of
issuance of NOC for actual import.
i. Annexure-A along with enclosures.
ii. Copy of In-principle approval.
iii. Details of augmentation of Pilots, Cabin crew and Maintenance
Engineers for the intended aircraft to be imported.
2.2.4 For Import/ Local Acquisition of aircraft for private use including microlight
aircraft, powered hang gliders and hot air balloon for private use, hobby flying,
Joy rides etc. the applicant shall apply for security clearance online through “e-
sahaj” portal. On receipt of security clearance from MHA, DAT shall issue in-
principle approval in case of Import and Permission for Local Acquisition of
aircraft which shall also be communicated to DAW (Directorate of
Airworthiness). DAW will issue a letter of recommendation to DGFT for grant of
import license, after ensuring that the aircraft meets the relevant airworthiness
requirements.

2.2.5 For Import/Local Acquisition of aircraft by FTO, DAT shall issue the In-principle
approval for Import/Permission for Local Acquisition of aircraft which shall
also be communicated to DFT (Directorate of Flying & Training).
Subsequently, NOC for import shall be issued by DAT in consultation with
DFT so as to ensure that the applicant has the required operational and
maintenance capability to utilize the aircraft for flying training purpose.
The applicant would be required to provide aircraft details as per Part-II of
Annexure ‘A’ of this circular for issuance of NOC along with a copy of in-
principle approval.

2.2.6 For Import/Local Acquisition of aircraft for the purpose of aerial work
operations, DAT shall issue the In-principle approval for

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR NO. 02/2017, Rev.2 3

 Import/Permission for Local Acquisition of aircraft only after the receipt
of security clearance as part of approval process for grant of aerial work
authorisation under Rule 134B of the Aircraft Rules 1937.

2.3 Fee:

Fee to be paid as follows in a manner as prescribed by Director General.

Category

Commercial/Private/Aerial Work FTO/Microlight

(Based on weight of the aircraft) Aircraft/Powered Hang
Gliders/Hot Air Balloon
All-up weight less Rs. 1,00,000/- Rs. 20,000/-
Fees than or equal to (One Lakh Only) (Twenty Thousand only)
10,000 kg per aircraft
All-up weight more Rs. 2,00,000/-
than to 10,000 kg (Two Lakh Only)

Note: In case of Scheduled Operators seeking In-principle approval for bulk of

aircraft, the requisite fee can be paid at the time of request for NOC for aircraft.

2.4 Validity of Permission for Import/Local Acquisition of aircraft.

The validity of the permission for Import/Local Acquisition of each aircraft shall
be one year which may be extended for another 6 months on genuine grounds.
However, in any case, such permission will not be extended beyond the validity
of the initial NOC issued by MOCA, in case of fresh applicants. In case of
Scheduled /Scheduled Commuter Operators the validity of In-Principle
Approval shall be as per the induction plan of the operator.

This supersedes Air Transport Circular No. 01/2016.

(B. S. Bhullar)
Director General of Civil Aviation

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR NO. 02/2017, Rev.2 4

 Annexure-A
APPLICATION FOR IMPORT/LOCAL ACQUISITION OF AIRCRAFT
PART I: GENERAL INFORMATION

1. Name and Address of the Applicant/Operator :

2. Category (Scheduled/Scheduled Commuter
/Non-schedule/Private/FTO/Aerial Work) :

3. Existing fleet strength :

S. No. Aircraft Type Registration Mode of Acquisition
Owned/Leased

4. Details of aircraft proposed to be Imported/Acquired

MSN Type & TCDS No. and Nationality Registration AUW Year of
Manufacture
No. Make Issue/Revision
date

(Specific details of the aircraft to be furnished as per format given in Part-II of this
Annexure)

5. Whether the aircraft has complied with all

Airworthiness Directives mandated by the
Authority issuing the Type Certificate : Y/N (If ‘No’ give details)

6. Paid Up Capital
(Only for scheduled/Non-Scheduled Operator)
(Enclose documentary evidence) :

7. Mode of Import/Local Acquisition :

(Outright Purchase or Dry Lease)

Outright Purchase Dry Lease

Name & Address Name &Address of Name & Address of Name & Address
of the owner the owner of aircraft the Lessor of the Lessee
(name of
manufacturer in
case of new
aircraft)

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR NO. 02/2017, Rev.2 5

 Annexure-A
8. Usual Station/Night Parking allotted
(Enclose documentary evidence) :

9. Arrangement/level of readiness for maintenance

of aircraft(Enclose documentary evidence) :

10. Level of readiness of security arrangements/

Security program :

11. Application for security clearance through

e-sahaj portal.
(In case of aircraft for private use) :

12. Details of Fee Paid :

(Enclose documentary evidence)

Bharat Kosh/NTRP Date Amount

Receipt No.

UNDERTAKING
i. The aircraft shall be used only for the purpose for which it is being permitted to
import/acquired and also shall meet the airworthiness/type acceptance criteria
for import as per relevant CARs.

ii. It is confirmed that the aircraft after registration in India shall be maintained,
operated and de-registered (if required) in accordance with the Indian rules,
regulations, procedures and any condition specified by DGCA India and there
is no binding or limitation of any kind in this regard in the lease agreement for
the Local acquisition of the aircraft.

iii. It is confirmed that the applicant shall comply with the provision of relevant
CAR regarding adequate number of flight crew/cabin crew and maintenance
personnel.

iv. Certified that the information given above is correct.

(Signature of the Applicant/Authorised Signatory)

Name:
Designation:

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR NO. 02/2017, Rev.2 6

 Annexure-A
PART II: AIRCRAFT DETAILS

a) Type and make of the aircraft:

b) Nationality and registration of the aircraft :
c) Year of manufacture of aircraft :
d) Name of manufacture of the aircraft :
e) Serial number of the aircraft:
f) No. of passenger seats/Weight of cargo permissible as per type certificate of
the aircraft/helicopter:
g) Maximum Certified take-off mass:
h) Engine Type mounted on aircraft:
i) Number of hours flown since new:
j) Number of landing since new:
k) Number of pressurisation cycle since new:
l) Last major check done and number of hours since flown:
m) Next major check due:
n) Name of the company from which the aircraft/helicopter is being taken on
lease:
o) Previous history of aircraft with details of any incident/accident involving
structural damage:
p) Name of the Authority and Country which issued the last certificate of
airworthiness:

Certified that the information given above is correct.

(Signature of the Applicant/Authorised Signatory)

Name:
Designation:

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR NO. 02/2017, Rev.2 7

 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP SAFDARJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI

AV.14027/05/2015-AT.I Dated: 02.03.2017

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR NO. 01/2017

In order to facilitate issuance of non-scheduled flight clearance on Saturday, Sunday

and holidays pertaining to Ambulance/relief flights and flights operated by Indian
Aircraft Operators, the authorized DGCA officers entertain such requests at their
residences. The request for flight clearance in respect of such flights can also be
submitted through email to the following officers who are authorized for the purpose.

1. Sh. Atul Maindola, 2. Sh. Raj Kumar

Asstt. Director of Operations (Air Transport) Asstt. Director of Operations (Air Transport)
Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
Mobile - 9999069074 Mobile - 9310145911

Procedure:

1. The Operator/Flight clearing agency concerned can submit such applications

through email in the prescribed proforma along with requisite enclosures and a
draft AFTN signal and inform the officer telephonically about the request.
2. The officer concerned will process/approve the application so received through
email and send the scanned copy of the signed AFTN signal to the applicant.
3. The applicant will then take the printout of AFTN signal to the appropriate Signal
Centre for its transmission and issue of YA No.
4. The applicant will submit a copy of the YA No. so issued to DGCA office on the
next working day.

This Circular supersedes Air Transport Circular No. 02/2014

This issues with approval of Director General

Sd/-
(Ved Prakash)
Director of Operations (Air Transport)
For Director General of Civil Aviation
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP. SAFDARJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR 02 OF 2016

F. No. Tariff/1/2013-AED Dated: 10th June 2016

Effective: 1st July 2016

Subject: Unbundle of services and fees by scheduled airlines

1. Sub-rule (1) of rule 135 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 states that every air transport
undertaking engaged in scheduled air services shall establish tariff having regard
to all relevant factors, including the cost of operation, characteristics of service,
reasonable profit and the generally prevailing tariff.

2. The airfares so established by the airlines also include charges for some of the
services rendered by them. On the basis of various feedback received, it is felt that
many a times these services provided by the airlines may not be required by the
passengers while travelling. Considering the fact that unbundling of services and
charges thereto has the potential to make basic fare more affordable and provides
consumer an option of paying for the services which he/she wishes to avail, it has
been decided by the Government to allow following services to be unbundled and
charged separately on opt-in basis:

(i) Preferential seating

(ii) Meal/snack/drink charges (except drinking water)
(iii)Charges for using airline lounges
(iv) Check-in baggage charges (above 15 kgs. of free check-in baggage
allowance. Between 15-20 kgs of checked-in baggage, the charge per kg
shall not be more than INR 100). However, airlines are allowed to offer “no
check-in baggage/ hand baggage only” fare scheme subject to the condition
that the penalty to be imposed on a passenger, who avails such schemes but
turns up with baggage for check-in at airline counter, cannot exceed the
amount of incentive offered compared to lowest fare.
(v) Sports equipment charges
(vi) Musical instrument carriage

1
 (vii) Fee for special declaration of valuable baggage (allow for higher unit on
carrier liability)

3. While Safety, schedule integrity and reliability of operations are integral

components of air travel which cannot be compromised, the unbundling of above
services and fees by scheduled airlines is subject to following guiding principles:

3.1 Services permitted for unbundling shall be distinct with a clear description and
without any ambiguity.

3.2 Customer should have clear information of these services and their charges so
that he/she opts-in only for the services they would like to avail thereby reducing
potential confusion and chances of selecting the services he/she would not like to
avail/purchase at the time of booking.

3.3 The unbundled services must be provided on “opt-in” basis and not on “opt out”
basis.

3.4 Scheduled airlines may offer special package/allowance for carriage of sports
equipment and musical instruments for the international/national level players and
artists respectively representing India.

3.5 Charges for the unbundled services shall be a fixed amount and shall not vary with
the base fare for a particular sector/flight.

3.6 Changes, if any, should be announced at least 30 days in advance by the

airlines.

3.7 Scheduled airlines shall display the unbundled services and charges thereto on
their respective website in a transparent and conspicuous manner.

3.8 Scheduled airlines shall also display on their respective website in a transparent
and conspicuous manner that the booking/reservation can be made without opting/
availing the unbundled services as indicated in Para 2.

3.9 It shall be the responsibility of the scheduled airlines that their travel portals/travel
agents display the unbundled service and charges thereto in a similar manner as
displayed by the airlines on their website.

3.10 Scheduled airlines shall also ensure that their travel portals/travel agents charge
the consumer for only those services he/she would require.

3.11 Scheduled airlines shall not discriminate passengers with disability and/or reduced
mobility with regard to provision of wheel chair/other assistive devices. Airlines

2
 shall continue to follow the provisions of CAR Section 3, Series M, Part I in this
regard.

3.12 In case of revision of charges/fee for such services by the scheduled airlines, the
difference, if any, shall not be charged from the consumer who has already paid
for.

3.13 In case of failure to provide any service already paid for by the consumer, it shall
be the sole responsibility of the scheduled airline to refund the same.

3.14 Scheduled airlines shall ensure that while pre-assigning emergency row seats, all
regulatory provisions are strictly adhered to i.e. to ensure appropriateness of
persons occupying those seats.

4. Airlines seeking to charge for unbundled services mentioned in Para 2 of this

Circular, shall file the same to DGCA in the following format:

a) Product description
b) Charge/fees
c) Manner of disclosure to public
d) Terms and conditions that are applicable to each of the unbundled
services

5. Scheduled domestic airlines are also required to ensure the following:

a) Furnish the list of the unbundled services and their fees to DGCA on every
first day of the calendar month.

b) Maintain all records pertaining to such services in its office as envisaged in

sub-rule (3) of rule 135 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937.

6. Although scheduled airlines are free to fix the charges/fee for the unbundled
services, yet DGCA reserves the right to intervene and stop the scheduled airlines
from charging for any specific unbundled service if principles such as opt-in,
transparency, non-discrimination are found to be violated by the airlines.

7. This supersedes Air Transport Circular 03 of 2015 dated 08th Nov 2015.

(M. Sathiyavathy)
Director General of Civil Aviation

To: All scheduled domestic airlines

3
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP. SAFDARJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR 03 OF 2015

F. No. Tariff/1/2013-AED Dated: 8th November 2015

Subject: Unbundle of services and fees by scheduled airlines

1. Sub-rule (1) of rule 135 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 states that every air transport
undertaking engaged in scheduled air services shall establish tariff having regard
to all relevant factors, including the cost of operation, characteristics of service,
reasonable profit and the generally prevailing tariff.

2. The airfares so established by the airlines also include charges for some of the
services rendered by them. On the basis of various feedback received, it is felt that
many a times these services provided by the airlines may not be required by the
passengers while travelling. Considering the fact that unbundling of services and
charges thereto has the potential to make basic fare more affordable and provides
consumer an option of paying for the services which he/she wishes to avail, it has
been decided by the Government to allow following services to be unbundled and
charged separately on opt-in basis:

(i) Preferential seating

(ii) Meal/snack/drink charges (except drinking water)
(iii) Charges for using airline lounges
(iv) Check-in baggage charges (above 15 kgs. of free check-in baggage
allowance). However, airlines are allowed to offer “no check-in
baggage/hand baggage only” fare scheme subject to the condition that
the penalty to be imposed on a passenger, who avails such schemes
but turns up with baggage for check-in at airline counter, cannot exceed
the amount of incentive offered compared to lowest fare.
(v) Sports equipment charges
(vi) Musical instrument carriage
(vii) Fee for special declaration of valuable baggage (allow for higher unit on
carrier liability)

1
3. While Safety, schedule integrity and reliability of operations are integral
components of air travel which cannot be compromised, the unbundling of above
services and fees by scheduled airlines is subject to following guiding principles:

3.1 Services permitted for unbundling shall be distinct with a clear description and
without any ambiguity.

3.2 Customer should have clear information of these services and their charges so
that he/she opts-in only for the services they would like to avail thereby reducing
potential confusion and chances of selecting the services he/she would not like to
avail/purchase at the time of booking.

3.3 The unbundled services must be provided on “opt-in” basis and not on “opt out”
basis.

3.4 Scheduled airlines may offer special package/allowance for carriage of sports
equipment and musical instruments for the international/national level players and
artists respectively representing India.

3.5 Charges for the unbundled services shall be a fixed amount and shall not vary with
the base fare for a particular sector/flight.

3.6 Changes, if any, should be announced at least 30 days in advance by the airlines.

3.7 Scheduled airlines shall display the unbundled services and charges thereto on
their respective website in a transparent and conspicuous manner.

3.8 Scheduled airlines shall also display on their respective website in a transparent
and conspicuous manner that the booking/reservation can be made without opting/
availing the unbundled services as indicated in Para 2.

3.9 It shall be the responsibility of the scheduled airlines that their travel portals/travel
agents display the unbundled service and charges thereto in a similar manner as
displayed by the airlines on their website.

3.10 Scheduled airlines shall also ensure that their travel portals/travel agents charge
the consumer for only those services he/she would require.

3.11 Scheduled airlines shall not discriminate passengers with disability and/or reduced
mobility with regard to provision of wheel chair/other assistive devices. Airlines
shall continue to follow the provisions of CAR Section 3, Series M, Part I in this
regard.

2
3.12 In case of revision of charges/fee for such services by the scheduled airlines, the
difference, if any, shall not be charged from the consumer who has already paid
for.

3.13 In case of failure to provide any service already paid for by the consumer, it shall
be the sole responsibility of the scheduled airline to refund the same.

3.14 Scheduled airlines shall ensure that while pre-assigning emergency row seats, all
regulatory provisions are strictly adhered to i.e. to ensure appropriateness of
persons occupying those seats.

4. Airlines seeking to charge for unbundled services mentioned in Para 2 of this

Circular, shall file the same to DGCA in the following format:

a) Product description
b) Charge/fees
c) Manner of disclosure to public
d) Terms and conditions that are applicable to each of the unbundled services

5. Scheduled domestic airlines are also required to ensure the following:

a) Furnish the list of the unbundled services and their fees to DGCA on every
first day of the calendar month.

b) Maintain all records pertaining to such services in its office as envisaged in

sub-rule (3) of rule 135 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937.

6. Although scheduled airlines are free to fix the charges/fee for the unbundled
services, yet DGCA reserves the right to intervene and stop the scheduled airlines
from charging for any specific unbundled service if principles such as opt-in,
transparency, non-discrimination are found to be violated by the airlines.

7. This supersedes Air Transport Circular 02 of 2015 dated 06th July 2015.

(M. Sathiyavathy)
Director General of Civil Aviation

To: All scheduled domestic airlines

3
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
OPPOSITE SAFDERJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI.

No. 7/253/2008-IR

Dated: 25th January, 2011

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR No. 0112011

Subject: Change in the type of aircraft by foreign airlines operating

scheduled flights to/from India.

There have been occasions when the aircraft designated for operation
of a scheduled flight to India develops a technical snag and becomes
unserviceable (AOG). In such a situation, the airline is sometimes forced to
operate that particular flight with a different type of aircraft and approach
this office for grant of permission for change in the aircraft type. Many a
time, such a situation arises only after office hours and on holidays and
obtaining permission from the concerned officer of the DGCAresults in delay
in the operation of the flight and consequent inconvenience to passengers.

2. In view of the above, it has been decided that for change in the type of
aircraft, the same procedure shall be followed as for operation of the relief
flights as outlined in Air Transport Circular No. 01/2008 (copy enclosed).
Nevertheless, in case the airline is compelled to operate a particular flight
with a higher capacity aircraft, it shall be ensured that the capacity is
restricted to that of the original aircraft and this fact may be clearly brought
out in the written communication to be furnished to the DGCAat the first
available opportunity.

(K~)
Dy. Director General
for Director General of Civil Aviation

To
Foreign airlines operating to/from/overflying India
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP SAFDURJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI

No. Tariff/1/AED-2010 Dated 19th Nov., 2010

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR 2 OF 2010

Subject: Publishing of Tariff - Rule 135 of Aircraft Rules, 1937 reg.

1. Sub-rule (1) of rule 135 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 states that every air transport
undertaking engaged in scheduled air services shall establish tariff having regard to all
relevant factors, including the cost of operation, characteristics of service, reasonable
profit and the generally prevailing tariff. Sub-rule (2) of rule 135 mentions that every air
transport undertaking shall publish the tariff established by him under sub-rule (1) in his
website or two daily newspapers, and shall display such tariff in a conspicuous part of
his office and in the office of his agent, if any.

2. It has been observed that information available in the public domain on airfares is
not considered sufficient and adequate to meet the intent of rule 135 of the Aircraft
Rules, 1937, which render it difficult for the air travellers to make an informed choice
while buying air tickets. It has also been observed in the recent past through the search
of websites of airlines and feedback from the air travellers that during the high demand
period, scheduled domestic airlines apparently charge excessive high tariff for various
flights across their network causing lot of inconvenience to the travelling public and
drawing adverse comments on airfares. Sudden surges in airfares are becoming a
frequent phenomenon, which is considered unjustified without any concomitant increase

1
in the operating cost of the airlines or any other justifiable reason. This situation has
been viewed seriously by the DGCA.

3. In view of the above and to maintain transparency in tariff publication, all the
scheduled domestic airlines are directed to ensure the following:

a) Furnish a copy of the tariff established under sub-rule (1) of rule 135 route-wise
across its network in various fare categories, in the manner it is offered in the
market, to DGCA on every first day of the calendar month. Any significant and
noticeable change in the established tariff so filed with DGCA shall be reported to
DGCA within 24 hrs of effecting such changes.

b) Maintain all records pertaining to established tariff in its office as envisaged in

sub-rule (3) of rule 135 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937.

4. As far as publishing of airfares by airlines are concerned, it is reiterated that the

provisions contained in sub-rule (2) of rule 135 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 shall be
strictly adhered to.

(Dr. Nasim Zaidi)

Director General of Civil Aviation

To: All scheduled domestic airlines

2
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP SAFDURJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR 9 OF 2009

File No: 23-11/2004-RD Dated: 5th Sept, 2009

Subject: Compliance of CAR Section 3, Series M, Part II regarding Refund

of Airline Tickets to Passengers of Public Transport Undertakings

In view of large number of complaints received with regard to delay/denial

in refund of unused tickets by the scheduled domestic airlines on account of
cancellation, DGCA had issued the subject CAR on 22nd May, 2008 laying down
various requirements for refund.

However, it has been observed that airlines are not following the subject
CAR in letter and spirit leading to general grievance of passengers that there is
still delay in the refund process and at times airlines are forcing the passengers
to accept refund by way of future travel.

Airlines are, therefore, once again advised to refund the amount to

passengers in accordance with the provisions of the subject CAR. In this regard,
airlines should also file a monthly return as per the enclosed proforma so as to
reach this office latest by 5th of every month indicating the details of refund cases
handled in the preceding month.

This issues with the approval of Director General of Civil Aviation.

(Lalit Gupta)
Director (R&D)/Air Transport
For Director General of Civil Aviation

To:

All Scheduled Domestic Airlines

Mode of Number of Refund Cases Received
Transaction
Total Settled with Not Resolved with
Details Reasons
Cash
Credit Card

Travel Agents

Note: If the settlement has been done by way of offering future travel, it
should be indicated in each case as to whether the consent of the
concerned passenger was obtained.
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP. SAFDARJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI-110003
Telegram: “AIRCIVIL”, Telephone No. 24622495, 24622499, 24622500

23-11/2004-RD Dated: 24th July, 2009

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR 5 OF 2009

Subject: Transparency in Display of Airfare – Rule 135 of Aircraft Rules, 1937 reg.

In order to have transparency in airfare advertising, Rule 135 of the Aircraft

Rules, 1937 has been amended wherein airlines shall display tariff in a conspicuous
manner to show the total amount payable by a passenger and a complete break-up of
the total amount, indicating the fare, tax, fees or any other charge, if any, separately.

Accordingly, scheduled domestic airlines had been asked vide DGCA Circular
No. 9/9/2009-IR dated 11th May, 2009 and 22nd June, 2009 to amend their respective
websites to indicate the airfare in a manner as indicated in the aforesaid para and
advise their Travel Agents for similar action. The scheduled domestic airlines have
carried out the said amendment. Based on the survey conducted by DGCA and the
feedback received from various quarters, it has been observed that:

i) There is no uniformity of airfare display on the website.

ii) Passenger unfriendly terms have been used in the fare break-up e.g. YQ, YR,
WO, etc.
iii) The display in the website is not in accordance with the Rule.

In view of the above, all the scheduled domestic airlines are required to display
the airfare in the following manner on their respective website:

Total amount payable by passenger Rs. …….

Breakup of above amount
Fare Rs. ……..
Tax Zero
Fees
- Passenger Service Fee (PSF) Rs. 229/-
- Airport Development Fee (ADF)/(UDF) Rs. 200/- (if applicable)
 The above actions on the part of airlines may be complied with latest by 15th
Aug., 2009.

(Lalit Gupta)
Director (R&D)
For Director General of Civil Aviation

To:

1. Director Commercial, NACIL (I), Nariman Point, Mumbai

2. The Chief Executive Officer, Alliance Air, Domestic Arrival Terminal, 1st Floor, IGI
Airport, New Delhi
3. The Chief Executive Officer, Jet Airways, SM Centre, Andheri-Kurla Road,
Andheri (E), Mumbai
4. The Chief Executive Officer, JetLite, A-110, Mahipalpur Extn, New Delhi
5. The Executive Vice President, Kingfisher Airlines, Kingfisher House, Western
Express Highway, Vile Parle, Santacruz (E), Mumbai
6. The Chief Executive Officer, Spicejet, 309, Udyog Vihar, Phase IV, Gurgaon
7. The Managing Director, Paramount Airways, Alexander Square, Chennai
8. The Chief Executive Officer, Go Air, Paperbox House, Off Mahakali Caves Road,
Andheri (E), Mumbai
9. The President, IndiGo, Global Business Park, Tower ‘C’, Gurgaon
10. The Chief Operating Officer, MDLR Airlines, MDLR House, Sector 15, Gurgaon
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP. SAFDARJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI-110003
Telegram:”AIRCIVIL”, Telephone No. 24622495, 24622499, 24622500

23-11/2004-RD Dated: 26th June, 2009

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR 4 OF 2009

Subject: Airport Level Monitoring of On-Time Performance (OTP)

In air transportation, schedule adherence or on-time performance (OTP) refers to

the level of success of the air services with reference to the published schedule.
Depending on number of factors, a flight may be regularly delayed or that usually
performs on time may be occasionally behind schedule. Despite the increasing attention
that airlines pay to punctuality the industry’s on-time performance still require further
improvement.

In view of the large number of delays experienced on domestic network causing

inconvenience to traveling public, DGCA has issued instructions to all scheduled
domestic airlines to furnish OTP data on periodic basis to ascertain causes of such
delays.

The subject matter has also been taken up in a meeting of CEOs/CMDs of

scheduled airlines/airport operators held under the Chairmanship of Secretary Civil
Aviation, wherein it was decided that a mechanism should be institutionalized which
should work on daily basis at airport level to review the reasons for lack of OTP.

Since majority of scheduled domestic operations are from six metro airports viz.
Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai, there is a need to
establish a mechanism for monitoring of on-time performance of scheduled domestic
airlines at these airports.

In view of the above, a team comprising representatives of AAI (ATM), airport

operator and airlines should meet daily to review the reasons for the lack of OTP in
respect of flights operated the previous day. The composition of the airport level team
shall be as follows:
For Bangalore, Delhi, Hyderabad & Mumbai

1. Airport Director - Convener

2. In-charge AOCC - Member
3. Representative from ATC - Member
4. In-charge Operations (one each of Scheduled - Member
Domestic Airlines
Operating to aforesaid
Airports)

For Chennai & Kolkata

1. Airport Director - Convener

2. Representative from ATC - Member
3. In-charge Operations (one each of Scheduled - Member
Domestic Airlines
Operating to aforesaid
Airports)

Teams so constituted at the aforesaid airports may forward the report on OTP to
this office on monthly basis.

(Dr. Nasim Zaidi)

Director General of Civil Aviation
To:

1. Chairman, Airports Authority of India, Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan, Safdarjung Airport,

New Delhi
2. The Chief Executive Officer, DIAL, New Uran Bhawan, T3 Site Office, Opp. ATC
Complex, IGI Airport, New Delhi
3. The Chief Executive Officer, MIAL, Terminal 1D, First Floor, CSI Airport, Mumbai
4. The Chief Executive Officer, BIAL, Administrative Block, Devanahalli, Karnataka
5. The Chief Executive Officer, GHIAL, Site office: Shamshabad, Rangareddy Distt.
(Andhra Pradesh)
6. Director Commercial, NACIL (I), Nariman Point, Mumbai
7. The Chief Executive Officer, Alliance Air, Domestic Arrival Terminal, 1st Floor,
IGI Airport, New Delhi
8. The Chief Executive Officer, Jet Airways, SM Centre, Andheri-Kurla Road,
Andheri (E), Mumbai
9. The Chief Executive Officer, JetLite, A-110, Mahipalpur Extn, New Delhi
10. The Executive Vice President, Kingfisher Airlines, Kingfisher House, Western
Express Highway, Vile Parle, Santacruz (E), Mumbai
11. The Chief Executive Officer, Spicejet, 309, Udyog Vihar, Phase IV, Gurgaon
12. The Managing Director, Paramount Airways, Alexander Square, Chennai
13. The Chief Executive Officer, Go Air, Paperbox House, Off Mahakali Caves Road,
Andheri (E), Mumbai
14. The President, IndiGo, Global Business Park, Tower ‘C’, Gurgaon
15. The Chief Operating Officer, MDLR Airlines, MDLR House, Sector 15, Gurgaon
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
OPPOSITE SAFDERJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI.

No. 7/253/2008-IR
Dated: 6th August, 2008
AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR NO. 01/2008

Subject : Operation of relief flights or change in the routing of overflights of

scheduled foreign airlines.

There are occasions when scheduled foreign airlines are required to operate
relief flights to India to cover the aircraft-on-ground (AOG) situations. These relief
flights are operated for the purpose of carrying the stranded passengers or for
ferrying the engine or spare parts for the grounded aircraft. Moreover, sometimes
the routing of the scheduled flights overflying India or the type of aircraft deployed on
such flights is changed. More often than not, such changes are made at the
eleventh hour due to technical or operational reasons. The problem gets further
accentuated when the need for operation of the relief flight or changes in the
scheduled overflights arises outside the office hours.

2. At present, specific approval of this office is required for changes in the

scheduled overflights or operation of relief flights. Although such permissions are
granted forthwith, difficulties are encountered by the airlines as well as this office,
particularly on holidays and beyond the office hours.
3. The matter has been considered in the light of the above and it has been
decided that in the event of an AOG situation, a scheduled foreign airline need not
seek prior permission from this office for operation of the relief flight. Prior
permission of this office may also not be required for change in the type of aircraft or
routing of the overflights. The airlines may contact the Air Traffic Control (ATC) of
the concerned airport who have been authorised to clear such flights.
4. However, the foreign airline shall send a written communication to DGCA at
the first available opportunity, indicating the circumstances necessitating the
operation of the relief flight or change in the type of aircraft or routing of the
overflight. In case of operation of a relief flight, it may also be clearly stated in the
letter to this office that no additional traffic rights have been exercised.
5. Although the ATC has been authorised to permit the operation of the relief
flights as well as changes in overflights, the airlines are not precluded from
approaching DGCA, as at present, provided sufficient time is available for seeking
prior approval.

Sd/-
(K.P. Maggon)
Director of Regulations and Information
for Director General of Civil Aviation
To

Foreign airlines operating to/from/overflying India

 C!J
~1
~\\\"
"

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT
..
OFFICE OF Tl-IE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP. SAFDARJUNG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI-3
Telegram: "AIRCIVIL" Telephone No. 24622495, 24622499, 24622500
*******

AV.140 15/17 /92-A T.I D~ted: 17.01.2007

Air Transport Circular No. 01 of 2007

Subject:- Renewal of Scheduled / Non-Scheduled Operators Permit reg.

It has been decided by the competent authority that, if an operator

fails to renew its Operating Permit within 2 years of its expiry, the same will
stand automatically cancelled and the operator will be required to apply
afresh for NOC to start Scheduled/non-Scheduled Air Transport Services, as
the case may be.

This is for the information of all the operators.

~
;.~
~

(P .K. Chattopadhyay)
Joint Director General
For Director General of Civil Aviation

'All Scheduled/ d(v

Non-Scheduled Operators
No. 23-11/99-RD
Date: 24th May, 2001

AIR TRANSPORT CIRCULAR NO. 1 OF 2001

            It has been noted with serious concern that some of the scheduled operators
are not operating their flights strictly in accordance with the approved flight schedule.
It has also been observed that the internal instructions for operating the flights issued
by an operator are at variance from the approvals obtained by them from various
agencies like Airports Authority of India, Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, Defence
Authorities and DGCA. This is a violation of the Civil Aviation Requirements. CAR
Section 3, Series C, Part II, which deals with the Minimum Requirements for Grant of
Permit to Operate Scheduled Passenger Air Transport Services, states at Para 10.15 as
follows:

“10.15           
The operator shall get his flight schedules approved
by DGCA at least 30 days in advance and operate
services in accordance with the flight schedules so
approved”.

All scheduled operators are, therefore, advised to operate their flights strictly
in accordance with the above CAR requirements. Operators are required to ensure that
their internal instructions or instructions to their travel agents etc. are not at variance
with the approved flight schedule. Copies of the approved flight schedule printed for
public convenience should clearly indicate date of effectivity of the flights and
forwarded to this office for records immediately on circulation.

(R.C. GUPTA)
Director Research & Development
For Director General of Civil Aviation