India Plans Stricter Aviation Rules After Ahmedabad Crash

In response to the deadly Air India crash near Ahmedabad, the Ministry of Civil Aviation in India has proposed new draft rules titled 'Aircraft (Demolition of Obstructions) Rules, 2025' to enhance aircraft safety by regulating structures that pose risks in aerodrome zones. These rules empower authorities to serve notices to owners of buildings or trees exceeding height limits, requiring detailed structural information and site plans within 60 days, with non-compliance leading to demolition or trimming orders. Officials are authorized to conduct physical inspections during daylight hours after notifying owners and may proceed without cooperation, escalating cases to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for enforcement. The draft also provides a clear appeals process for property owners to challenge orders, with compensation available only for compliant cases. These measures aim to proactively prevent future accidents by removing flight path obstructions, reflecting a significant regulatory tightening following the crash of the Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner that killed nearly all passengers and some on the ground. Public feedback on the proposed rules is being invited before finalization.