The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on March 10, 2026, issued guidelines outlining the requirements for grant of operating authorization to foreign airlines under Bilateral Air Services Agreements for operating scheduled international air services to and from India.
The guidelines state that foreign airlines must be formally designated by their respective governments under the relevant bilateral Air Services Agreement with India, with such designation communicated through diplomatic channels. DGCA will grant operating authorization upon receipt of the designation and application, provided that substantial ownership and effective control of the airline rests with the designating country or its nationals, and that the airline meets safety, security, and operational standards prescribed under applicable laws and bilateral agreements.
Foreign airlines must register on the E-Governance of Civil Aviation (eGCA) portal, create login credentials, and submit prescribed documents including incorporation details, Air Operator Certificate, management structure, and details of a designated Local Representative in India. The Local Representative must be an Indian national or an Indian legal entity responsible for regulatory coordination, compliance with DGCA requirements, and reporting operational occurrences.
