India – The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has officially discontinued the Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) Viva Examination, marking a significant regulatory reform in Indian pilot licensing. The move aligns India’s certification process with global aviation standards and has been welcomed by industry stakeholders, including ALPA India.

• Streamlines the ATPL issuance process, eliminating a subjective oral assessment long viewed as outdated.

• Enhances international credibility and recognition of Indian-issued ATPLs by aligning with ICAO practices adopted by other major civil aviation authorities.

• Emphasis will now shift toward practical competency and flight experience, reflecting current global trends in pilot evaluation.

Source: ALPA India