The Ministry of Civil Aviation has proposed a new law aimed at removing buildings, trees, and other obstructions near airports that could pose a risk to aircraft operations. The move follows heightened safety concerns after the recent Ahmedabad flight incident.
Titled the Aircraft (Removal of Dangerous Obstructions) Rules, 2025, the draft legislation empowers authorities to demolish or reduce the height of any structure that interferes with safe flight navigation. The law will take effect once officially published in the government gazette.
Under the proposed rules, property owners will have 60 days from receiving notice to take corrective action. Failure to comply will prompt the airport authority to escalate the matter to the District Collector, who will oversee enforcement.
Significantly, compensation will be offered only to owners of structures built before the law’s publication. Any new construction made after the notification—if deemed a threat—will not be eligible for compensation upon removal.
The ministry has also opened a 20-day window for public feedback following the draft’s publication. Objections can be submitted to the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Officials say this proactive measure is essential to creating safer airport zones and preventing future aviation mishaps. It reflects the government’s zero-tolerance approach to flight safety risks, ensuring smoother and more secure air travel for all.
