India’s DGCA Issues Guidelines for New Vertiports to Support Future Air Mobility
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India has taken a significant step towards the future of air travel by issuing an advisory circular on vertiports. Vertiports are small airports designed to support the vertical take-off and landing of aircraft, such as electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Key Highlights:
- The advisory circular provides a foundational framework for the development and operation of vertiports.
- Guidelines cover essential infrastructure requirements, safety measures, and operational procedures.
- Standards for visual aids, battery charging, and emergency preparedness are included.
- Site clearance and authorisation will be granted post-construction of vertiports.
This initiative is a major milestone in enabling Vertical Takeoff and Landing Capable aircraft (VCA) operations in India, paving the way for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).
Doubts Revealed
DGCA -: DGCA stands for Directorate General of Civil Aviation. It is the Indian government body responsible for regulating civil aviation in India, ensuring safety and standards in air travel.
Vertiports -: Vertiports are small airports designed specifically for aircraft that can take off and land vertically, like helicopters or new types of flying vehicles. They are different from regular airports because they don’t need long runways.
Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) -: Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) refers to new and innovative ways of air transportation, including the use of small, electric aircraft that can take off and land vertically. This aims to make air travel more accessible and efficient.
Vertical Takeoff and Landing Capable aircraft (VCA) -: Vertical Takeoff and Landing Capable aircraft (VCA) are special types of aircraft that can rise straight up into the air and land straight down, without needing a long runway. Examples include helicopters and some new electric flying vehicles.
