India Issues New Guidelines for Deplaning Passengers Amid Tarmac Delays
In a recent move aimed at enhancing passenger experience and addressing logistical challenges during tarmac delays, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has issued fresh directives to airports and airlines across the country.
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Zulfiquar Hasan, Director General of BCAS, confirmed the issuance of these guidelines, emphasizing the need for proactive measures in handling delays of varying nature, be it due to weather conditions, medical emergencies, or technical issues.
Under the new guidelines, airport security or airline authorities are empowered to make timely decisions regarding deplaning passengers during extended delays. While no specific time limit has been stipulated, the focus remains on ensuring passenger comfort and safety.
In instances where delays persist, passengers will be escorted back to designated boarding areas until the aircraft is cleared for take-off. Additionally, in cases requiring aircraft substitution due to technical issues, efforts will be made to swiftly transfer passengers’ luggage to the replacement aircraft.
Acknowledging the operational challenges faced by airports, particularly during adverse weather conditions like fog, BCAS has urged airports to bolster their infrastructure and readiness to manage such scenarios effectively.
The directive comes in the wake of significant flight disruptions experienced at airports, including Delhi Airport, during December and January 2024, where over 500 flights were delayed due to fog-related issues. Instances of prolonged delays necessitating passenger deboarding underscore the importance of streamlined protocols in such situations.
Notably, incidents like the assault on a co-pilot onboard an IndiGo flight due to a 13-hour delay serve as reminders of the need for swift and efficient handling of tarmac delays to mitigate passenger frustration and ensure safety.
BCAS commemorated its 38th Raising Day recently, reaffirming its commitment to civil aviation security. Attended by dignitaries including Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Home Secretary of India, and Tapan Kumar Deka, Director of Intelligence Bureau of India, the event highlighted the agency’s pivotal role in safeguarding aviation interests.
Established as an independent department under the Ministry of Civil Aviation in 1987, BCAS plays a vital role in implementing international aviation security standards outlined in Annexure-17 to the Chicago Convention of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Led by a Director General, BCAS oversees the development and implementation of the National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP), ensuring comprehensive security measures across the aviation sector.
Zulfiquar Hasan, Director General of BCAS, confirmed the issuance of these guidelines, emphasizing the need for proactive measures in handling delays of varying nature, be it due to weather conditions, medical emergencies, or technical issues.
Under the new guidelines, airport security or airline authorities are empowered to make timely decisions regarding deplaning passengers during extended delays. While no specific time limit has been stipulated, the focus remains on ensuring passenger comfort and safety.
In instances where delays persist, passengers will be escorted back to designated boarding areas until the aircraft is cleared for take-off. Additionally, in cases requiring aircraft substitution due to technical issues, efforts will be made to swiftly transfer passengers’ luggage to the replacement aircraft.
Acknowledging the operational challenges faced by airports, particularly during adverse weather conditions like fog, BCAS has urged airports to bolster their infrastructure and readiness to manage such scenarios effectively.
The directive comes in the wake of significant flight disruptions experienced at airports, including Delhi Airport, during December and January 2024, where over 500 flights were delayed due to fog-related issues. Instances of prolonged delays necessitating passenger deboarding underscore the importance of streamlined protocols in such situations.
Notably, incidents like the assault on a co-pilot onboard an IndiGo flight due to a 13-hour delay serve as reminders of the need for swift and efficient handling of tarmac delays to mitigate passenger frustration and ensure safety.
BCAS commemorated its 38th Raising Day recently, reaffirming its commitment to civil aviation security. Attended by dignitaries including Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Home Secretary of India, and Tapan Kumar Deka, Director of Intelligence Bureau of India, the event highlighted the agency’s pivotal role in safeguarding aviation interests.
Established as an independent department under the Ministry of Civil Aviation in 1987, BCAS plays a vital role in implementing international aviation security standards outlined in Annexure-17 to the Chicago Convention of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Led by a Director General, BCAS oversees the development and implementation of the National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP), ensuring comprehensive security measures across the aviation sector.
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