Government sets up civil aviation safety council

The government has set up a Civil Aviation Safety Advisory Council (CASAC) in DGCA in order to strengthen aviation safety environment through synergisation of available expertise.

The council, headed by the director general of civil aviation, will have 28 members drawn from various aviation sub-sectors such as airlines (both public and private), flight operations, air worthiness, operations etc.

In addition, representatives from ICAO, FAA, Boeing, Airbus and other organisations will be invited as special invitees as per requirements to participate in the meetings of CASA.

The council will be advisory in nature and advise DGCA in areas of operations of aircraft - (commercial and general aviation), aerodromes and heliports, air navigation services, air operator certification, airworthiness of aircraft, including maintenance, certification of aeronautical products and human performance and training.

The council would also review the existing regulatory framework and give recommendations to further strengthen the aviation safety. It will also develop, examine and recommend incorporation of best regulatory practices, recommend short, medium and long-term measures for safety enhancement and reflect public views on aviation safety matters.

The council will meet every quarter or as may be decided by the chair. The council can set up working groups in focused areas and can also conduct business by electronic means.

The council has been constituted for a period of one year.