As part of Iran’s air transport modernisation initiative, the Civil Aviation Organization of Islamic Republic of Iran (CAO.IRI) announced in August that a number of ageing aircraft types are to be removed from airline fleets across the nation. The CAO.IRI reportedly stated that several aircraft types, including the Boeing 727, Airbus A300 and Fokker 100 (among others), will be gradually phased out over a three month period. The modernisation program aims to improve the overall safety and efficiency of Iran’s aviation operations. Iran Air, Mahan Air, Iran Aseman Airlines and Pouya Air all operate the aircraft types earmarked for retirement.

Despite initial concerns that introducing a two-person minimum rule within the cockpit would potentially create an additional risk to flight operations, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has advised that implementing this rule would not pose a greater risk than a pilot being deliberately locked out. The need to implement a two-person minimum rule stemmed from the Germanwings Flight 9525 fatal accident, where the captain was locked out of the cockpit by a suicidal co-pilot, after which time the aircraft was deliberately flown into a mountain in the French Alps. EASA subsequently moved to implement a two-person minimum rule within the cockpit in order to avoid a pilot being locked out. The amended guidelines also reiterated that operators must ensure that the designated crew member is aware of their role and responsibilities whilst stationed within the cockpit.

The Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) has raised the age restrictions on pressurised aircraft imported into the country. Previously, the DGAC had imposed legislation which restricted carriers from importing aircraft over 15 years old. The new directive, introduced on the 16th June 2016, will now allow operators to import aircraft up to 18 years old. Potential importers will also have to provide the DGAC with each aircraft’s operational records, including extensive maintenance history. Despite the raised age limit, each aircraft will still be assessed on a case by case basis.