The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has introduced a range of initiatives to strengthen the institutional framework and enhance the workforce in critical aviation organisations, incluidng the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA), and the Airports Authority of India (AAI), according to officials.
The DGCA, which oversees and regulates civil aviation in the country, is in line to receive a substantial increase in its workforce. A total of 416 new positions have been created within the DGCA, marking a significant stride in ensuring safety and adherence to regulations within the aviation industry. This expansion is being implemented gradually, with 114 of these positions already occupied by qualified professionals.
AERA, an autonomous regulatory body responsible for overseeing economic regulations within Indian airports, is currently in the process of expanding its workforce. To enhance its capacity for efficient performance of duties, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has granted approval for ten new positions.
This will foster healthy competition, ensure equal opportunities and encourage investment in airport infrastructure. Out of these ten newly-created roles, five have already been filled, while the remaining five will be occupied in the near future. Furthermore, among the 27 existing vacancies, 24 have already been filled, and the recruitment process for the remaining three is currently in progress, as stated by the official.
The AAI has initiated a plan to expand its workforce of air traffic controllers (ATCOs) in response to the increasing demand for air travel. AAI has introduced a total of 796 additional ATCO positions in two phases, with 340 positions created in May 2022, followed by an additional 456 in April 2023.
Additionally, AAI has proactively taken steps to appoint personnel to these ATCO roles, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing safety in air travel. As these newly established positions are gradually filled, it is anticipated that these actions will contribute to the ongoing growth and advancement of the Indian aviation sector.
