DGCA has put 166 people on the no-fly list since 2021. How you can avoid being on it

Over the past year or so, Indians travelling on flights have been grabbing attention, not always for positive reasons. Occasionally, it involves a video that goes viral, capturing conflicts between two passengers, or disagreements between the crew and a passenger, among other incidents. But did you know that you can actually get banned for your 'unruly behaviour'?

Since 2021, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken action against 166 passengers, adding them to the no-fly list.

What

• Since 2021 until now, a total of 166 passengers have been added to the no-fly list by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), resulting in their prohibition from domestic flights in India for a designated duration.
• Minister of State of Civil Aviation, VK Singh, communicated this information through a written response to the Rajya Sabha.
• He also disclosed that over the past 3 years, the airlines have received an excess of 13 thousand complaints.

[READ MORE: The 5 worst flight fight viral videos of 2022 to remind you of a Mile-High Fight Club]

The no-fly list

Remember the incident in 2020, when stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra was banned from four Indian airlines for allegedly 'heckling' journalist Arnab Goswami onboard an IndiGo plane? 

He was added to the 'no-fly list' of four airlines - IndiGo (for 6 months), SpiceJet, Air India and GoAir. 

 [READ MORE: 3 times stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra got in trouble]

But, what exactly is a no-fly list? 

• In 2017, the Indian government introduced the National No-Fly List with the aim of recognising passengers who engage in disruptive conduct and imposing temporary flight bans on them.
• The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance safety and prevent disorderly behaviour during air travel.

• Oversight of the no-fly list falls under the responsibility of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which compiles and maintains the list using information provided by airlines. Now, the ban for which airline and how long -- depends on the DGCA and airlines.
• It's important to note that the no-fly list exclusively pertains to passenger conduct while aboard both scheduled and non-scheduled flights. Any infractions occurring within airport premises fall under the jurisdiction of the respective security agency responsible for that specific airport. Basically, if you misbehave at the airport, you will be dealt with by the security agencies at the airport.

What can put you on a no-fly list?

According to DGCA, the following can put you on the list: 

1.  Unruly behaviour (physical gestures, verbal harassment, unruly inebriation)

2. Physically abusive behaviour (pushing, kicking, hitting, grabbing or inappropriate touching or sexual harassment, etc.)

3. Life-threatening behaviour (damage to aircraft operating systems, physical violence such as choking, eye-gouging, murderous assault attempted or actual breach of the flight crew compartment, etc)

How to be a 'good' flyer?

To ensure you are not put on the no-fly list by the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation), remember:

1. Follow air travel regulations: Adhere to all rules and regulations set by the DGCA and the airline you are flying with. This includes complying with security procedures, carrying permissible items, and respecting staff instructions.

2. Behave responsibly: Maintain courteous behaviour during your travel. Avoid disruptive conduct, such as aggression towards fellow passengers, crew members, or airport staff.

3. Arrive on time:  Reach the airport well before your flight's departure time. This ensures a smoother check-in process and minimises the likelihood of any misunderstanding or fighting with the crew.

4. Proper documentation: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, identification, and boarding passes ready before your journey.

5. Address concerns professionally: If you encounter any issues during your travel, address them calmly and professionally with the airline staff or relevant authorities.

6. Cooperate with security checks: Cooperate fully during security checks and screenings. This helps maintain a safe and efficient travel environment.

Remember that each airline and aviation authority may have its own specific criteria for adding passengers to the 'no-fly list'. By following these general guidelines, you can minimise the chances of being added to such a list.

READ MORE: What should you do if your flight leaves without you, is delayed, or cancelled?