Post-Air India Crash: Govt Introduces Stricter Aircraft Safety Regulations

Stricter Aircraft Safety Rules: What You Need to Know
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has released new draft regulations, Aircraft (Demolition of Obstructions) Rules, 2025, aimed at improving flight safety by controlling hazardous structures near airports. These rules come after the June 12 Air India crash, where a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner collided with a hostel complex in Ahmedabad, killing 241 out of 242 passengers, including former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani.
Key Highlights of the New Draft Rules

1. Immediate Action Against Violations
Authorities can issue notices to property owners if their structures (buildings, trees, etc.) exceed the prescribed height limits in aerodrome zones.
Owners must submit detailed structural information, site plans, and dimensions within two months of receiving the notice.

2. Enforcement & Penalties
Non-compliance may lead to demolition or height reduction.
Aviation officers can inspect properties during daylight hours after notifying the owner.
If owners refuse cooperation, authorities can proceed based on available data and report to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

3. Legal Recourse & Compensation
Owners can appeal against demolition orders by submitting an application with supporting documents and a fee of ₹1,000.
Compensation is only available for compliant structures under Section 22 of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024.
Structures built after the notification will not be eligible for compensation if found violating height norms.

4. Public Feedback & Implementation
The ministry has invited public objections/suggestions within 20 days of the notification.
Responses must be sent to the DGCA, India’s civil aviation regulator.

Sample Questions & Answers (FAQs)
1. What triggered the new aviation safety rules?
The Air India crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2024, where a plane collided with an illegally tall structure, prompted the government to enforce stricter height regulations near airports.
2. Who can issue a notice for height violations?
The officer-in-charge of an aerodrome can issue a notice if a structure exceeds the permitted height limit.
3. What happens if a property owner ignores the notice?
Failure to comply may lead to forced demolition or height reduction by district authorities.
4. Can owners challenge demolition orders?
Yes, they can file an appeal with an appellate officer by submitting documents and a ₹1,000 fee.
5. Will owners get compensation for demolished structures?
Only legally compliant structures are eligible for compensation. New constructions violating norms will not receive any compensation.