Private jet operators seek relaxations in FDTL, EDTO norms

Private jet operators' association BAOA has sought certain relaxations in the flight duty norms for pilots operating chartered flights and aviation watchdog DGCA is likely to set up a committee to look into the demands as well as suggest changes, according to industry sources.

The representatives of the Business Aircraft Operators Association (BAOA) discussed the FDTL (Flight Duty Time Limitations), Extended Diversion Time Operations (EDTO) and other issues during their meeting with DGCA officials recently.

BAOA represents more than 100 entities that are engaged in business and general aviation , as per its website.


The sources said that with collaborative efforts, changes can be made to the existing FDTL norms for business jet operators in order to bring them on par with global best practices.

One of the demands from the association is to align norms for long-range business jets with the global standards.

With advanced aircraft coming in, there are more long-range flying options, and against this backdrop, the limit should be increased, the sources said.

They also said the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is likely to constitute a committee to look into the issues with respect to FDTL for business jet flights.

The existing FDTL norms for Non-Scheduled Operators (NSOPs) have limits for the flying time of pilots and cabin crew depending on various factors.

Business jet operators, which are NSOPs, implement the FDTL rules based on the fatigue risk management system, the sources said.

Among other issues, the association has sought relaxation in the EDTO norms to increase the relevant time limit to 120 minutes from the current 90 minutes.

Broadly, EDTO norms are to ensure that an aircraft, while operating a flight, would be able to land at the nearest airport within the stipulated time window in case there are operational issues. At present, the time window is 90 minutes, which means the plane concerned should be operating the flight path wherein the nearest airport for landing can be reached within that time frame.

The sources said DGCA is looking at the association's request regarding EDTO positively.