India Implements Strict Measures on Powered Hang Gliders to Prevent Terror Attacks
India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has implemented new rules for powered hang gliders following recent terror attacks. The rules require authorization, flying experience, and security checks to ensure safety.
In the wake of the recent terror attacks carried out by Hamas terrorists using powered hang gliders, India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has implemented new rules and regulations regarding the operations and security of these gliders. The revised rules state that no person can fly a powered hang glider without authorization from an examiner or instructor approved by the aviation regulator. The eligibility criteria for becoming an examiner or instructor have also been defined by the DGCA. According to the new rules, a person must have 50 flying hours on a powered hang glider and 10 hours on dual machines to be considered eligible.
Once approved by the regulator, these examiners or instructors can authorize others to fly motorized hang gliders. The DGCA has also laid down criteria for individuals to become eligible pilots for these gliders. The rules state that no person shall fly a powered hang glider unless they hold a Commercial Pilot License with at least 25 hours of flying time on a powered hang glider.
However, a person with 50 hours of flying experience and prior authorization can also be eligible to fly the craft. To ensure the safety and security of powered hang gliders, the DGCA has introduced additional measures. These include the requirement of a certificate issued by the DGCA for the sale or disposal of powered hang gliders. The regulator will grant the certificate after conducting background checks on the buyer with the Ministry of Home Affairs. Furthermore, any person or firm interested in acquiring or manufacturing powered hang gliders will be required to secure security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs through the DGCA. They will also need to comply with the security requirements set by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The new rules also prohibit the leasing, renting, or lending of powered hang gliders to anyone. Additionally, the gliders are not allowed to carry remote sensing appurtenances, weapons, photography or video recording equipment without the express permission of the Ministry of Home Affairs. However, equipment necessary for the safe operation of the aircraft or specified in CAR (Civil Aviation Requirements) is permitted. The DGCA has also emphasized the importance of complying with security measures approved by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security at parking and operational locations before each flight.
The implementation of these new rules comes after Hamas terrorists carried out one of the deadliest terror attacks in the world, killing over 1,400 people, including women and children. The terrorists entered Israel from Gaza using trucks, hang gliders, and boats. In retaliatory strikes, Israel has reported that 2,778 Palestinians have been killed and 9,700 wounded. India's tightened rules for operating hang gliders aim to prevent such incidents by ensuring proper authorization, security checks, and compliance with safety measures. These measures are crucial for maintaining the safety of both pilots and the general public.