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Friday, May 04, 2007
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DGCA directive to airlines

Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI: To address the issue of lack of orderliness at airports at the time of boarding , the Directorate-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has made it mandatory for all carriers to allocate row and seat numbers to passengers travelling in a public transport aircraft.

The new order will also ensure correct loading of aircrafts besides keeping its centre of gravity within limits at all times during flight.

In its latest Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) guidelines, the DGCA has asked all airlines to allot specific seats to passengers at all stations clearly indicating the row and seat numbers on the boarding passes. This will also address the problem of overbooking.

With the allocation of row and seat numbers, the approved personnel responsible for loading of the aircraft will follow appropriate procedures ensuring that the weight and balance of the aircraft and its centre of gravity is within limits for all phases of flight irrespective of the number of passengers.

The allotment of specific seat numbers will ensure that the boarding of aircraft is carried out in a smooth and orderly manner. Such allocation will facilitate quick head-count of passengers for tallying with passenger manifest entries as and when required. And in case of an aircraft accident or unlawful interference with the aircraft, the seat numbers allotted to passengers will assist in follow-up action and investigation.

Making a special mention of the handicapped, sick and elderly passengers, CAR states that due care should be taken while allotting specific seats to such persons and they should be embarked before normal passengers.

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