An Air India Express pilot tragically passed away from a cardiac arrest in New Delhi on April 9, shortly after completing a flight from Srinagar to the capital. The incident occurred soon after the aircraft landed at Indira Gandhi International Airport.
According to reports, the pilot, identified as Armaan, began feeling unwell post-landing and was quickly transported to a nearby hospital. Despite the efforts of the medical staff, he was declared dead on arrival. Airline personnel later revealed that Armaan had vomited inside the cockpit before collapsing at the airline’s dispatch office at the airport.
In an official statement, Air India Express expressed deep sorrow over the loss: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of a valued colleague due to a sudden medical emergency. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved family. We are doing everything possible to support them during this difficult time. We request privacy and urge against speculation as we work with authorities on the necessary procedures.”
This incident comes amid ongoing concerns about pilot fatigue and rest regulations in India. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had planned to implement revised flight duty time limitation (FDTL) rules, which would have increased weekly rest periods from 36 to 48 hours and reduced maximum night flying hours from 13 to 10. These changes were initially scheduled to take effect in June last year.
However, due to airline demands for more time—citing the need to hire 20–25% more pilots—the DGCA has deferred the implementation of the new norms. Airlines requested an extension of 8 to 10 months to meet the updated requirements. While the DGCA initially stood firm on the deadline, it has now agreed to maintain the 2019 guidelines until each carrier’s revised plan is formally approved.
Officials stated that the delay will allow for a more thorough review and evaluation of the proposed rest regulations.
