BackDGCA warns private jet operators over ferrying banned notes
DGCA said it has been reported that some chartered jet operators have been engaged to carry demonetised currency, particularly from uncontrolled airfields
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New Delhi: The aviation regulator on Tuesday warned private aircraft operators and their pilots against flying withdrawn currency notes to unsupervised airports.
“It has been reported that some of the non-scheduled operator permit holders have been engaged to carry demonetised currency from one part of the country to another, particularly from the uncontrolled airfields where there are no arrangements for screening baggage," the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said in a circular to operators on Tuesday.
Several small towns and some flying clubs have uncontrolled airstrips without air traffic control and screening systems. At these airports, the district superintendent of police is required to give permission to operate, DGCA said. At these air fields, where small aircraft up to 10 seats operate, checking passengers and baggage is the pilot’s responsibility and verifications must be carried out by concerned police authorities.
ALSO READ: Demonetisation by the numbers as of 29 November
“In view of the above, all holders and private aircraft operators are directed to strictly comply with the provisions... failing which strict action as deemed appropriate shall be initiated against the pilot-in-command as well as the operator," the DGCA said.
On 8 November, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced withdrawal of all Rs500 and Rs1,000 notes to check black money, terror finance and counterfeiting.
India has over 140 private jets owned by companies or charter service providers.
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