Archive · 31 Jan 2026
Delhi High Court Questions DGCA on Pilot Rest Rule Changes
The Delhi High Court is asking the DGCA why they changed a rule about pilots' rest time.
The DGCA said pilots can't combine their leave with their weekly rest time, but the court wants to know why.
Some people think this change makes flying less safe.
The DGCA gave one airline, IndiGo, a temporary break from some of these new rules until February 10, 2026.
The court wants to understand the reasons behind these changes to make sure pilots are safe and not too tired.
Airlines say the new rules are too strict and could cause more flight cancellations.
Pilot groups say the rules are necessary for safety.
Delhi High Court seeks DGCA's response on changes to pilot rest rules.
DGCA disallows clubbing of pilots' leave with weekly rest, citing operational disruptions.
PIL filed by Sabari Roy Lenka, Aman Monga, and Kiran Singh challenges the DGCA's instruction, citing increased accident risk and pilot fatigue.
DGCA granted IndiGo a temporary exemption from some night operations-related changes until February 10, 2026.
Court questions the rationale behind the indefinite withdrawal of the 'no leave shall be substituted for weekly rest' rule.
- Who
- Delhi High Court, DGCA, IndiGo, PIL Filers (Sabari Roy Lenka, Aman Monga, Kiran Singh)
- What
- Delhi High Court seeks response from DGCA on changes to pilot rest rules
- When
- December 5, 2025 (DGCA instruction), February 10, 2026 (temporary exemption for IndiGo)
- Where
- Delhi High Court, India
- Why
- To ensure pilot safety and prevent fatigue, and to address operational disruptions
- Court
- Delhi High Court
- Parties Involved
- DGCA, IndiGo, PIL Filers (Sabari Roy Lenka, Aman Monga, Kiran Singh)
- Date of DGCA Instruction
- December 5, 2025
- Temporary Exemption for IndiGo
- Until February 10, 2026
- Mandatory Weekly Rest Period
- 48 hours
- PIL Filed By
- Sabari Roy Lenka, Aman Monga, Kiran Singh
- Night Duty Definition
- Midnight to 6 am
- Night Operations Limit
- Two landings
