In the aftermath of the Air India crash, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has released new draft rules to tighten control over structures that pose risks to aircraft safety.
The draft, titled Aircraft (Demolition of Obstructions) Rules, 2025, was issued on June 18 and will come into force once published in the Official Gazette.
The rules seek to empower authorities to act swiftly against buildings and trees that violate height restrictions in notified aerodrome zones. These measures are being seen as a direct move to prevent future accidents caused by flight path obstructions.
Under the draft, any structure found violating the prescribed height limits may be served a notice by the officer-in-charge of an aerodrome. Owners must submit detailed information – including structure dimensions and site plans – within sixty days. Failure to comply could result in enforcement action, including demolition or height reduction.
If the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) or an authorised officer confirms a violation, they may issue an order directing the owner to demolish the structure or cut the tree. The order must be complied with within sixty days. A second sixty-day extension may be granted only on valid grounds.
For physical verification, officers are empowered to enter the premises during daylight hours after informing the owner. In cases of non-cooperation, officers may proceed based on available information and refer the matter to the DGCA.
In the event of non-compliance, the officer-in-charge must report the case to the District Collector, who is required to carry out the demolition or trimming as per the order. This process will follow the same procedure used for removing unauthorised constructions.
Owners have the right to appeal orders with the First or Second Appellate Officer. Appeals must be filed in the prescribed form along with supporting documents and a fee of Rs 1,000. However, only those who comply with the orders may claim compensation under section 22 of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024. Any new non-compliant structures built after the notification will not be eligible for compensation.
The Civil Aviation Ministry has invited objections or suggestions from the public within twenty days of the notification’s publication. Responses may be sent to the Director-General of Civil Aviation.