India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has outlined proposed new legislation that would pave the way for the importation and dry-lease of foreign-registered aircraft by Indian operators using Indian crews.
A government gazette issued Monday, November 7, says the revised legislation aims to foster growth in India's fast growing market.
"[The] operation of foreign-registered aircraft is ideal and convenient for start-up airlines, when exploring new routes or during seasonal fluctuations and sudden peaks in demand," the DGCA said. "In addition, operation of foreign-registered aircraft arguably also fulfills the interim needs created by long-term fleet expansion plans, while maximizing market share in the immediate term."
The DGCA adds that before any such arrangement can come into effect, it would have to sign a Memorandum of Understanding on oversight responsibility with the aircraft's State of Operator and State of Registry.
The proposal is currently at a draft stage and is being put up for public consultation. It is likely to be finalized by the second week of December of this year.
