The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has introduced a simplified process for obtaining a Heliport License, streamlining the application procedure and reducing administrative hurdles.
Previously, applicants seeking a license or operational authorization had to navigate multiple steps, including obtaining No Objection Certificates (NOCs) or clearances from five external organizations: the Ministry of Home, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Environment and Forest, Airport Authority of India, and Local Administration. These applications had to be made separately through online or physical modes before submitting the online application to the DGCA.
However, the DGCA has now simplified the process by integrating all these steps into a single tab within the applicant’s eGCA profile. Applicants can now conveniently route their applications for NOC/Clearance through this tab using the URL link or email of the respective organizations. This streamlined approach significantly reduces the complexity and time required for obtaining the necessary clearances.
The introduction of this simplified process is a testament to the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s commitment to ease of doing business. Under the leadership of Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, the Ministry has prioritized enhancing efficiency and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
The eGCA portal, launched in November 2021 by Scindia, aims to improve the efficiency of various services provided by the DGCA. It serves as a centralized platform for submitting online applications and accessing a range of aviation-related services.
It is worth mentioning that the Ministry of Civil Aviation has also introduced UDAN 5.1, a program aimed at enhancing connectivity to remote areas of the country, including through helicopter services. The simplified process for obtaining Heliport Licenses aligns with the objectives of UDAN 5.1, facilitating last-mile connectivity and ensuring the success of this initiative.
With the DGCA’s simplified process for granting Heliport Licenses, stakeholders in the aviation industry can experience a more streamlined and efficient application procedure. This development further strengthens the government’s efforts to promote ease of doing business and improve connectivity across the country.
