In response to the Ahmedabad plane crash that claimed over 200 lives, the Union government has notified new demolition rules for structures near airports. The Aircraft (Demolition of Obstructions) Rules, 2025, aim to enhance aviation safety by empowering authorities to act against buildings or trees that violate flight path height limits, a known risk factor in several recent air accidents.
The new rules, finalised on 18 June, grant legal authority to the Civil Aviation Department and the DGCA to issue demolition or height-reduction orders for any obstruction near airports. These include buildings and trees that exceed permissible height restrictions in aerodrome zones. The rules will become effective upon publication in the Official Gazette, forming a preventive mechanism against future flight safety hazards.
Under the Aircraft (Demolition of Obstructions) Rules, owners of structures identified as violating height norms will be served a notice requiring action within 60 days. If they fail to comply, a further 60-day extension may be granted. The rules also empower aerodrome officers to enter premises for inspection during daylight hours and proceed with demolition procedures if the owner remains uncooperative.
The regulation permits appeals but restricts compensation eligibility to only those who comply with demolition or height-reduction orders. All appeals must be filed before the First or Second Appellate Officer. Meanwhile, the DGCA retains the final authority to confirm violations and mandate enforcement actions. Owners are also required to submit structure details and site plans to assist in the compliance process.
This legislative move comes just a week after the fatal crash of Air India Flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad, where over 190 victims were identified through DNA analysis. The crash occurred when the London-bound aircraft collided with a high-rise structure before hitting a medical facility. Officials believe the lack of enforcement against structural obstructions contributed to the severity of the incident.
The government’s swift introduction of obstruction demolition rules marks a decisive step toward improving India’s aviation safety framework. By empowering authorities with clear procedures and timelines, the Centre aims to minimise future risks from unregulated urban development near airports. While enforcement may face legal challenges, the emphasis on flight path integrity and public safety signals a strong policy shift after the Ahmedabad tragedy.
