Zero Tolerance for Unruly Passengers: BCAS Chief Zulfiquar Hasan Sends a Stern Message

Zulfiquar Hasan, the Chief of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), delivered a stern message to unruly airline passengers, emphasizing that the authorities will not tolerate such behavior and will enforce the law of the land against those who disrupt the safety and peace onboard flights. The issue of unruly passengers has been a growing concern in recent times, prompting aviation authorities to take decisive action.

Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS)

During a briefing held in an undisclosed location, Hasan addressed the alarming rise in incidents involving unruly passengers on flights. He stressed the seriousness of the issue and asserted that authorities should file FIRs (First Information Reports) against these disruptive individuals. The BCAS chief made it clear that they should face the full consequences of their actions, and no unruly passenger should escape punishment.

While the responsibility of regulating such cases lies with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), BCAS plays a crucial role in ensuring the overall security and safety of the aviation sector in India. Unruly passengers pose a significant risk to both the flight crew and fellow passengers, potentially leading to dangerous situations during the flight.

Official data from previous years reflect the severity of the problem. The internal committee of the respective airlines recommended placing a total of 63 passengers on the infamous “No Fly List” in 2022, barring them from boarding flights for varying periods. This list serves as a measure to prevent unruly passengers from causing further disruptions on any airline.

As the aviation industry continues to navigate through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the need to maintain a safe and orderly environment onboard flights has become even more critical. Minister of State for Civil Aviation, VK Singh, provided an update on the situation during a session in the Lok Sabha on July 20, 2023. As of July 15, 2023, authorities have placed 37 passengers on the “No Fly List.”

“No Fly List”

Passengers being placed on the “No Fly List” were primarily involved in violations such as refusing to wear masks, despite the regulations mandating them during flights, or disobeying the instructions given by the flight crew members. Such non-compliance not only endangers the health and safety of others but also disrupts the overall flight operation.

While most passengers adhere to the rules and guidelines set by airlines and regulatory authorities, a small minority continues to defy the rules, leading to the necessity of imposing stricter measures to curb unruly behavior.

The aviation industry has been working tirelessly to ensure a safe and pleasant travel experience for all passengers, and actions against unruly passengers are a crucial part of these efforts. By imposing penalties on those who violate safety protocols, the authorities hope to deter others from engaging in similar disruptive behavior.

The BCAS chief, Zulfiquar Hasan, and the DGCA continue to collaborate closely to address this pressing issue and take necessary actions against unruly passengers. However, it is not only the responsibility of the authorities but also the duty of every passenger to cooperate and comply with the rules in place, thereby contributing to a safer and more enjoyable flying experience for all.

In conclusion, the message is loud and clear – unruly passengers will face the full force of the law. As the aviation sector seeks to regain stability in a post-pandemic world, ensuring the safety and security of air travel remains paramount, and no one who threatens this peace should go unpunished.

Read more: Latest Indian Aviation News

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