Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 20: In a groundbreaking move for India’s aviation sector, union minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu on Thursday launched the Electronic Personnel License (EPL) for pilots, making India the second country in the world to introduce this advanced digital system.

The EPL is a secure, digital version of a pilot’s license that replaces traditional physical cards. It will be accessible through the eGCA mobile application, ensuring a seamless, transparent, and efficient licensing process in alignment with the government’s "Ease of Doing Business" and "Digital India" initiatives.

With India’s aviation industry experiencing unprecedented growth, the country is expected to require nearly 20,000 new pilots in the coming years. Recognizing this demand, Naidu emphasized that the EPL would not only enhance pilots' ease of access to their credentials but also boost their employability in the global market while ensuring real-time verification for security purposes.

The implementation of EPL follows an amendment by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which encourages member states to adopt electronic licenses for enhanced security and operational efficiency. While major global aviation authorities are still transitioning to similar systems, India has positioned itself as a leader in digital aviation solutions.

Previously, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued pilot licenses in smart card format, with 62,000 such licenses distributed so far. In 2024 alone, approximately 20,000 new licenses were expected to be printed, averaging 1,667 cards per month. The introduction of EPL will gradually phase out physical cards, significantly streamlining the licensing process and reducing environmental impact by cutting down paper and plastic usage.

Beyond EPL, Naidu highlighted several digital advancements transforming India’s aviation landscape, including:

• The eGCA platform, which streamlines aviation licensing.
• The Digital Sky Platform, designed for drone operations.
• The Electronic Flight Folder (EFF), optimizing airline operations.

The launch of EPL marks a major milestone in India’s commitment to global aviation standards, reinforcing the nation’s position as a pioneer in digital aviation governance while ensuring a tamper-proof and globally recognized regulatory framework for pilots.