# DGCA extends pilot rest rule deadline

> DGCA gives airlines extra time to follow pilot rest rules as costs rise.
- Title: DGCA extends pilot rest rule deadline · The Economic Times
- Summary: DGCA gives airlines extra time to follow pilot rest rules as costs rise. India's aviation regulator extended pilot rest rule implementation deadline to March…
- Keywords: dgca, pilot rest rules, airlines, cost pressures, indigo, spicejet, air india, federation of indian airlines, federation of indian pilots, aviation safety regulations, extends, pilot
- Source: The Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/dgca-extends-pilot-rest-rule-deadline-to-march-as-airlines-face-cost-pressures/articleshow/135153897.cms
- Author: Arindam Majumder
- Published: 2026-10-23T18:47:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: dgca, pilot rest rules, airlines, cost pressures, indigo, spicejet, air india, federation of indian airlines, federation of indian pilots, aviation safety regulations
## DGCA extends pilot rest rule deadline
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation extended the deadline for airlines to fully implement revised pilot rest rules to March 31, 2027.
## Airlines face cost pressures
Carriers grapple with rising operating costs and crew shortages amid high fuel prices and rupee depreciation.
## Previous extensions
The DGCA granted three extensions, including one after IndiGo's December operational crisis.
## Revised rules details
The rules extended night duty from midnight to 6 am and capped landings at two during this period.
## Airlines' concerns
Airlines say the rules could increase pilot requirements by 25% and raise costs due to high fuel prices.
## Pilots' opposition
The Federation of Indian Pilots urged the government to withdraw relaxations, saying they normalize temporary arrangements.
## Key takeaway

India's aviation regulator extended pilot rest rule implementation deadline to March 2027 to address crew shortages and high operating costs.