DGCA Introduces Lifetime Ban for Misbehavior on Flights: New Rules in Effect

New Delhi: Passengers planning air travel, take note. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has introduced strict new rules under a “Zero Tolerance Policy” for unruly behavior onboard flights. Anyone found misbehaving, particularly under the influence of alcohol or drugs, could face a lifetime ban from flying.

The policy aims to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft, while maintaining discipline and a positive environment during flights. The DGCA has prepared a draft framework outlining how airlines should deal with such passengers.

Procedures Across Airlines
DGCA Chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai has proposed that airlines must establish clear procedures to handle unruly passengers both onboard and at airports. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) will need to be implemented across the airline, especially for staff in direct contact with passengers.

Airlines must now have systems to identify misbehavior at check-in counters, lounges, boarding gates, terminals, or airside areas. Reports of such incidents will be forwarded immediately to law enforcement, and offenders can be barred from boarding.

Four Levels of Misbehavior
The “No Fly” regulations categorize misconduct into four levels:

1. Level 1 – Verbal Misbehavior: Includes inappropriate gestures, verbal harassment, or drunken misbehavior.
2. Level 2 – Physical Misbehavior: Includes pushing, kicking, assault, unwanted touching, or sexual harassment.
3. Level 3 – Life-threatening Behavior: Includes tampering with aircraft systems, choking, gouging eyes, or attempting to kill.
4. Level 4 – Security Breach: Includes attempting to enter or entering the flight crew compartment.

No Appeals for National Security Cases
The new rules also allow the Home Ministry to provide a list of individuals considered a threat to national security. These individuals will be included in the No-Fly List, and there will be no provision for appeal. The list, shared with airlines, will remain in effect as long as the person is deemed a security threat.

Applicability to Foreign Airlines
The “No Fly” rules will apply to all passengers traveling to and from India, including foreign carriers, provided the airline reports such cases. This ensures that the regulations are not limited to Indian airlines or airports alone.

With these rules, the DGCA is sending a clear message: unruly behavior on flights will not be tolerated under any circumstances.