From turbulence in the skies to turbulence on the ground, 2024 will undoubtedly be remembered as a year that tested the mettle of airlines and passengers alike. As 2024 comes to a close, the aviation industry reflects on a year marked by unprecedented challenges and resilience. From escalating hoax bomb threat calls to Indian airlines to surge in number of severe turbulence cases internationally, airlines, both domestic and international, faced numerous hurdles while striving to maintain safety and efficiency.
Rising hoax bomb threat to Indian airlines
The rising bomb threats to Indian airlines have emerged as a significant concern, posing challenges to the nation’s aviation security. These threats not only endanger the safety of passengers and crew but also disrupt operations, causing delays and economic losses. The increasing frequency of such incidents underscores the need for robust security measures, advanced surveillance technologies, and stringent checks at airports. According to official data, airlines received 666 hoax bomb threats in October, and by November 14, the total number of such threats for the year had reached 999.
The Civil Aviation Ministry has amended the Aircraft (Security) Rules, 2023, introducing two new provisions—Rules 29A and 30A—to enhance aviation security. Rule 29A empowers the Director General of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) to deny or revoke a person’s access to an aircraft for security reasons. Rule 30A prohibits spreading false information that could jeopardise aviation safety, cause panic, or disrupt operations, with violations punishable by fines of up to Rs 1 lakh. These measures aim to strengthen safeguards against threats and ensure smoother civil aviation operations.
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Severe trurbulence on the rise
Severe turbulence cases in 2024 have captured global attention due to their frequency and intensity. In January, a United Airlines flight from New York to Los Angeles encountered violent turbulence over the Midwest, injuring several passengers and prompting an emergency diversion. Similarly, in March, an Air India flight from Mumbai to London experienced sudden, severe turbulence over the Arabian Sea, leading to multiple injuries and the need for medical attention upon landing.
These incidents highlight the increasing unpredictability of turbulence, with climate change contributing to stronger jet streams and more erratic weather patterns. As a result, aviation experts are focusing on better turbulence forecasting and improving aircraft designs to withstand such conditions, while airlines stress the importance of passengers following safety guidelines, especially keeping seatbelts fastened during unpredictable flight phases.
Revised flight duty norms
Revised flight duty norms refer to updated regulations that govern the working hours and rest periods for airline crew members, particularly pilots and cabin crew, to ensure safety and prevent fatigue. These new norms aim to strike a balance between operational efficiency and the health and well-being of crew members. Under the revised guidelines, limits on maximum flight hours, mandatory rest periods, and conditions for extended duty times are more strictly defined.
For example, pilots may be required to take longer rest breaks after extended flights or night duties. The changes also focus on minimising the risk of fatigue-related incidents by incorporating more flexibility in scheduling, ensuring better rest opportunities, and considering factors like time zone changes.
IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Air India Express have requested an extension for the phased implementation of the revised flight duty norms, citing increased crew requirements and the necessity of establishing a fatigue risk management system to monitor pilot fatigue.
Staff shortages and operational challenges
The year also saw airlines grappling with staff shortages, a lingering effect of the pandemic. Pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff faced increased workloads, leading to operational inefficiencies and delayed flights. Several unions organised strikes, demanding better working conditions and pay increases, further exacerbating disruptions.