New Delhi witnessed a groundbreaking moment in India’s aviation sector as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) unveiled electronic personnel license (EPL) services for Airline Transport Pilot Licenses (ATPL) on Wednesday. Held at DGCA headquarters, the launch marks a pivotal step in the organization’s digital transformation journey.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation hailed the initiative as a secure digital license compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. Embedded security features ensure authenticity, prevent tampering, and enable swift verification. Pilots can now access their EPL seamlessly through the eGCA mobile application, streamlining what was once a cumbersome paper-based process.
This rollout follows DGCA’s earlier introduction of EPL for Commercial Pilot Licenses (CPL) and Flight Radio Telephone Operator Licenses (FRTOL) in February 2025. By extending digital services to ATPL, DGCA reinforces its commitment to enhancing efficiency, transparency, and service delivery across the aviation industry.
In a related development, DGCA recently imposed a hefty Rs 222 million fine on IndiGo airlines for massive flight disruptions in December 2025. Between December 3 and 5, the carrier cancelled 2,507 flights and delayed 1,852 others, stranding over 300,000 passengers at airports nationwide. The chaos raised serious questions about the airline’s operational readiness and compliance.
The penalty includes a one-time Rs 18 million fine for multiple violations of civil aviation rules, plus daily penalties of Rs 3 million for 68 days of non-compliance with revised flight duty time limitations, totaling Rs 204 million. This action underscores DGCA’s resolve to uphold safety and passenger rights amid growing air travel demands.