Aviation Crisis Unfolds Amid Controversial FDTL Changes

YSRCP leader Margani Bharat accused Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu of causing the country's aviation crisis due to improperly implemented FDTL rules. The rules increased pilots' rest time, leading to shortages and flight cancellations. Passenger safety and convenience have been compromised, locking IndiGo and others in turmoil.

A political storm erupts as YSRCP's Margani Bharat blames Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu for the nation's aviation woes. Bharat alleges Naidu's "incompetence" for the hasty implementation of new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) rules, which have drastically affected pilot availability.

According to Bharat, these changes have extended pilots' mandatory rest times, triggering a severe pilot shortage and causing widespread flight cancellations, especially affecting major airline IndiGo. Currently, IndiGo operates 2,300 flights daily with a fleet of 434 aircraft and approximately 5,400 pilots, now requiring 900 more to cope with the new regulations.

The crisis has severely impacted passengers, including vulnerable groups, with affected airlines purportedly raising fares. Furthermore, Bharat criticized opposition member Nara Lokesh's unwarranted involvement in the issue, citing it as a publicity effort lacking official authority. Response from the ruling TDP remains awaited.

(With inputs from agencies.)