Government acts tough; vows action against fake flying schools
23 Mar 2011
Civil aviation minister Vayalar Ravi today said the government has ordered an audit on the 40-odd flying clubs in the country and that it would take strict action against fake flying schools that help pilots obtain licences without proper training and documents.
"There are about 40 flying schools. Now there is an audit of these schools," the minister said, adding, "Blanket order has been given to go ahead into the complaints."
"The ministry has issued go ahead orders to the concerned agencies in order to build a strong case against the alleged fake schools without any leniency," he added.
On the issue of the suspended woman pilot, he said the court would decide in the case.
"There will be no leniency to anybody. We will go very strongly, abiding by the laws. Every angle would be looked into. The issue is very serious," he added.
So far, 13 pilots have been arrested for obtaining licences based on forged mark sheets, while the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has canceled the flying licences of many others.
The minister said the DGCA had discussed the issue with him "more than once" and steps are being taken to address the issue.
"Everything would be done step by step," he said, adding, it is a big fraud playing with human lives.
