The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on May 14, 2024, issued an amendment to CAR Section 7 - Series B Part XVI - Training requirements for the issue of Seaplane Rating.
The following has been stated namely: -
• It shall be applicable to an applicant who applies for an extension of Seaplane Rating on a Seaplane having AUW of up to 5,700 Kg and holds a valid ATPL(A) / CPL(A) or PPL(A).
• It states that the License shall indicate the types of seaplane the holder is entitled to fly, therefore, for an extension of airplane rating to include an additional type of seaplane, an applicant shall undergo a training course and flight instruction under the syllabus prescribed in this CAR.
• It states that an applicant for a seaplane rating shall have at least 200 hours of total flying experience, of which at least 100 hours shall be as PIC on airplanes.
• It states that the applicant for a seaplane rating shall pass a theoretical knowledge examination organized by the ATO to demonstrate the acquisition of an adequate level of theoretical knowledge required for the safe operation of the applicable seaplane and the passing percentage for such candidates shall be as per the ATO norms or 70% whichever is higher
• It states that a pilot shall not operate a seaplane in commercial air transport or carry passengers as PIC or co-pilot unless he or she has carried out, in the preceding 90 days, at least 3 take-offs and landings as a pilot in a seaplane.
The Objections or suggestions, if any, with respect to the Draft amendment to CAR Section 7 Series B Part XVI, shall be taken into consideration by June 14, 2024, and may be sent to the following address by post – “Capt. Shweta Singh, CFOI, Office of the Director General of Civil Aviation, Opp. Safdarjung Airport, Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi - 110 003”, or Email at "[email protected]".
