The tragic Air India crash near Ahmedabad airport, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has introduced draft regulations aimed at enhancing flight safety by addressing obstructions near airports.
Titled the Aircraft (Demolition of Obstructions) Rules, 2025, the draft was notified on June 18 and will take effect once officially published in the Gazette. The rules are designed to empower authorities to remove or reduce the height of structures—such as buildings or trees—that violate height restrictions within designated airport zones. This move is seen as a direct response to growing safety concerns and the recent crash incident.
- Key Provisions of the Draft Rules
Enforcement Action Against Violations:
If a structure is found exceeding height limits, the officer-in-charge of the aerodrome will issue a notice to the owner. The owner must then submit detailed documents—including structure dimensions and a site plan—within 60 days. Non-compliance can lead to demolition or height reduction of the structure.
Demolition Orders and Compliance Timeline:
Once the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) or an authorised officer confirms a violation, an order will be issued to the property owner. The structure must be brought into compliance within 60 days, extendable by another 60 days under valid circumstances.
On-Site Inspections and Authority Protocols:
Officers are allowed to carry out physical inspections during daylight hours, with prior intimation to the property owner. If the owner does not cooperate, the officer may proceed using official records and escalate the matter to the DGCA.
District Collector’s Role in Enforcement:
If a violation order remains unaddressed, the case will be handed over to the District Collector, who will oversee the demolition or trimming. The action will follow procedures similar to those for removing unauthorised constructions.
Right to Appeal and Compensation:
Affected individuals can appeal orders by filing with the First or Second Appellate Officer, along with necessary documents and a Rs 1,000 fee. Compensation under Section 22 of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024 will be granted only to those who comply with the rules. No compensation will be given for illegal constructions made after the notification date.
Public Feedback Invited
The Ministry has opened the draft for public input and invited objections and suggestions within 20 days of the notification. Responses can be sent directly to the Director-General of Civil Aviation.
These proposed rules are expected to play a key role in improving airspace safety and ensuring clear flight paths around airports across India.