Civil Aviation Ministry streamlines DGCA licensing procedures

The Ministry of Civil Aviation is examining the Directorate General of Civil Aviation’s (DGCA) regulatory approval framework to streamline procedures and reduce the time required for prospective carriers to secure an Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Under current regulations, obtaining necessary clearances—spanning security vetting, fleet induction, crew training checks, and proving flights—can take up to two years, creating significant financial holding costs for new entrants. By digitising regulatory workflows, eliminating redundant documentation, and setting clear turnaround timelines for each approval phase, the Centre aims to lower entry barriers, encourage private investment in domestic aviation, and boost overall fleet capacity to keep pace with soaring demand. The focus is on the current multi-stage approval process under which airlines must sequentially obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC), security clearance and an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) before commencing commercial operations, according to a report.