DGCA Adopts ICAO's Environmental Guidelines for Sustainable Aviation

New Delhi, 26 July 2023: In a significant move towards promoting sustainable aviation practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the aviation sector, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has adopted the guidelines for environmental protection developed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) through its Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs). The guidelines have been issued by DGCA in the form of Civil Aviation Regulations (CARs) to ensure their effective implementation and adherence.

The Indian Government has been taking proactive steps to realize the goals of decarbonization in the aviation sector. To promote the use of clean fuels and reduce carbon footprint, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoP&NG) has established a Bio-Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) Programme Committee. The committee, with a comprehensive scope of work, including raw materials production, technology, BIS Standards, and effects on engine performance, has submitted its recommendations to the Ministry.

In line with the efforts to achieve ‘Carbon Neutrality’ and ‘Net Zero,’ the Ministry of Civil Aviation has written to operators of all brownfield airports with scheduled operations and developers of upcoming greenfield airports, urging them to work towards accreditation by Airports Council International (ACI/ISO 14064 through empaneled verifiers). The advisory also encourages the adoption of carbon mitigation measures and carbon management plans.

The Airports Authority of India has been taking proactive measures to reduce energy intensity in existing and upcoming airport projects through initiatives like Energy Intensity Data publication. Additionally, a training module has been created for Air Traffic controllers to sensitize them towards carbon neutrality.

The Airports Authority of India, in collaboration with the Indian Air Force, has optimized airspace utilization under the Flexible Use of Airspace (FUA) scheme, resulting in a reduction of CO2 emissions.

In line with ICAO’s aspirational goal of Carbon Neutral Growth from 2020 onwards, ICAO has adopted a market-based measure, the Carbon Offsetting Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), to reduce carbon emissions from international aviation. As a Member State of ICAO, India is committed to complying with the mandatory phase of CORSIA from 2027.

These initiatives collectively demonstrate India’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable practices in the aviation sector, contributing to a greener and more responsible future.