DGCA clears the air on unapproved capacity increases
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The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has released a circular clarifying passenger capacity allowances for foreign airlines flying to India.
As the DGCA continues to protect the Indian carriers from foreign competition, it has stated that foreign airlines must not carry more than their designated passenger capacity in the event of an aircraft change.
So if Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific or any other foreign carrier should replace one aircraft with a larger plane for any reason, they must not carry more passengers than their official prescription allows, despite having free seats on the route.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) stated that “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”.
Such changes in aircraft occur at times when the original plane develops technical problems and cannot undertake its scheduled flight operation.
The maximum number of passengers an airline is allowed to board is detailed under the bilateral air services agreement between the governments of India and other countries.
Though no airline has violated the bilateral agreement norms so far, the sources said the need for such a circular arose after queries raised by some airlines, reported Business Standard.
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