New Delhi: Amid widespread flight cancellations across India, the Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA India) has issued a sharp statement alleging that the disruption being attributed to a pilot shortage under the new Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL) norms may be the result of poor planning-and possibly a deliberate tactic to pressure aviation regulators.

In a press release issued on Tuesday, the union said airlines, including major carriers, had been fully aware of the revised FDTL regulations since January 2024, yet failed to plan adequately. The revised norms mandate increased pilot rest periods to address fatigue, requiring carriers to adjust schedules and crew strength accordingly.

“Despite sufficient time being accorded, most airlines started preparing rather late”, the statem

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