Indian airline IndiGo cancelled thousands of flights last month after failing to meet new pilot rest regulations on time, prompting concern among Thai aviation stakeholders about readiness for similar rules.
The airline was fined US$2.45 million and required to provide a US$5.51-million bank guarantee after poor pilot roster planning caused widespread disruption.
In Thailand, industry players are calling on the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) to ensure smooth implementation of the new Thailand Civil Aviation Regulation (TCAR) to prevent comparable problems.
What is TCAR?
TCAR is an upgraded aviation framework aligned with standards from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). It covers airlines, air operator certificate (AOC) holders, pilots, crew, maintenance and training.
CAAT director-general ACM Manat Chavanaprayoon said the previous rules were safe but needed updating to match global standards. He stressed that stricter oversight requires proper support systems and a realistic transition period.
Thailand has a four-year transition window from TCAR’s 2023 announcement until full enforcement in late 2026, giving airlines time to adapt while recovering from the pandemic.
Changes to Pilot Rosters
TCAR introduces tighter fatigue management and flight time limits, requiring airlines to improve crew scheduling and provide longer rest periods.
Teerawat Angkasakulkiat, president of the Thai Pilots Association, said the rules will reduce pilot fatigue and improve safety, but also increase demand for new pilots as airlines expand fleets.
Paradon Khamprang, head of flight operations at Thai AirAsia, said IndiGo underestimated the impact of India’s rule changes, leading to crew shortages. Thai AirAsia is using the transition period to prepare, though short-term costs are rising due to training, new systems and additional staff.
In the long run, he said, the rules should reduce accident risks and operational disruptions. Thai AirAsia is recruiting new pilots who will begin training this quarter.
Instructor Training Challenges
A major TCAR change requires instructor training to be conducted through CAAT-approved training organisations (ATOs), rather than in-house. However, Thailand currently has no certified ATOs, forcing some airlines to send staff abroad.
Industry representatives warn this could slow workforce development. ATO training will standardise theory, simulator work and aircraft practice.
Thai AirAsia plans to establish its own ATO but says doing so is complex and requires close coordination with CAAT.
ACM Manat said developing domestic ATO capacity is vital for Thailand’s goal of becoming an aviation hub. CAAT is working with operators on curriculum development and streamlining approval processes.
He expects TCAR to strengthen safety management and drive steady growth in pilots, crew and instructors over the next 3–5 years.