In a significant move following the tragic crash of an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has released new draft rules aimed at tightening control over physical structures that could pose risks to aircraft safety.
Titled ‘Aircraft (Demolition of Obstructions) Rules, 2025’, the draft regulations will come into effect upon their publication in the Official Gazette. The rules are designed to empower authorities to take prompt and decisive action against buildings, trees, and other structures that exceed permissible height limits in designated aerodrome zones.
The initiative is being seen as a proactive step to enhance aviation safety and prevent future accidents caused by obstructions in aircraft flight paths.
Under the proposed rules, any structure exceeding the height restrictions around notified aerodromes will be served a notice by the officer-in-charge. Property owners will be required to submit key details — including site plans, ownership documents, and structural dimensions — within 60 days of receiving the notice.
Failure to comply may result in enforcement action, including the demolition or trimming of the structure.
If the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) or an authorised officer determines the structure to be in violation, a formal order may be issued mandating height reduction or demolition. Property owners will be given up to 60 days to comply, with the possibility of a one-time extension of an additional 60 days, subject to valid justification.
The draft also grants officials the authority to conduct physical site inspections during daylight hours after informing the property owner. If the owner refuses to cooperate, the officer may proceed based on available information and escalate the matter to the DGCA.
Appeals and Compensation
The draft rules outline a two-tier appeals process, allowing affected property owners to challenge demolition or trimming orders by filing an appeal with the First or Second Appellate Officer. Appeals must include the prescribed form, relevant documents, and a fee of Rs 1,000.
Importantly, the rules state that only those who comply with official orders will be eligible for compensation under Section 22 of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024. Structures erected in violation of the rules after the notification date will not qualify for any compensation.
The Ministry has invited public objections and suggestions within 20 days of the draft’s publication.
The regulations follow the June 12 crash of an Air India Dreamliner, which was en route from Ahmedabad to London’s Gatwick Airport. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft slammed into the B.J. Medical College Hostel and burst into flames, killing 241 of the 242 people on board and several others on the ground.
(With inputs from IANS)
