An Overview of the Draft Aircraft Bill, 2023

The Draft Aircraft Bill, 2023, is a comprehensive proposal set to transform and strengthen the regulation and control of civil aviation in India.

• The bill aims to rectify the limitations of the existing Aircraft Act of 1934 by simplifying its provisions, removing repetitive clauses, and instituting legal entities for efficient execution.
• The introductory section of the draft bill indicates its intention to create an Act to regulate and control the design, manufacture, possession, use, operation, sale, import and export of aircraft and related matters in a more effective manner.

Key Features of the Draft Aircraft Bill

1. Addressing Contemporary Regulatory Challenges: With the continuous expansion and technological evolution of the civil aviation sector, there is a critical need for updated rules. The draft bill, by enhancing the regulatory authority of agencies like the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) , ensures that the civil aviation sector remains adaptive to emerging trends and maintains optimum safety standards.
2. Regulatory and Oversight Roles: The draft bill proposes the creation of two statutory bodies - the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau. Their main tasks would involve enforcing the Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) as stipulated in the Chicago Convention and performing regulatory and oversight functions in the aviation sector.
3. Use of Simplified Language: The Draft Aircraft Bill, 2023, advocates for the use of easy-to-understand language in formulating regulatory provisions. This approach enhances transparency, equips citizens with knowledge about aviation laws, and promotes better adherence.
4. Alignment with International Norms: The Draft Aircraft Bill, 2023, aims to align India’s civil aviation laws with international norms, as set out under the Chicago Convention. This alignment is essential for India's active participation in international aviation agreements and for promoting safe and efficient air travel.

The Draft Aircraft Bill, 2023, offers a significant opportunity to improve the regulation and control of civil aviation in India. The proposed bill has the potential to fortify India’s aviation sector while ensuring adherence to global standards.

Understanding the Chicago Convention

The Chicago Convention, also known as the Convention on International Civil Aviation, is an international treaty formed in 1944. It outlines the basic principles and rules for international air transport.

• The convention led to the establishment of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) , which is tasked with ensuring compliance with its provisions.
• The convention recognizes nine freedoms of air, with the first five officially recognized by the ICAO. These freedoms allow member countries to fly over, land in, and transport passengers and cargo between different territories.
• India is a member of the Chicago Convention.