DGCA notifies two new rules to check unruly air passengers

6th Jan 2011

---

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has notified two new rules to regulate passengers’ bad behaviour on-board both domestic and international flights destined for India. The two rules — No 22 and 23 — have been incorporated in the Indian Aircraft Rules, 1937. According to a report in Times of India, any offence under these rules is punishable with imprisonment up to one year or a fine of up to Rs five lakh, or both. These rules also empower the airline and cabin crew to initiate action for bad on-board behaviour and to lodge a complaint with agencies like the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

Bharat Bhushan, Director General of Civil Aviation said the provocation to introduce the new clauses was based on experience. “We want to constantly improve the system. Earlier, the police would book unruly passengers under IPC (Indian Penal Code). The new clauses are a codified response to on-board indiscipline,” added Bhushan. Previously, unruly passengers would be booked under section 336, 323, 354 or 506 of the IPC, which deal generally with endangering lives or personal safety of others, or voluntarily causing hurt.