Up in the Air: Decoding DGCA's Cabin Crew Training & Licensing Manual!

Aviation industry is a marvel of human innovation, allowing us to traverse the globe with ease and connect with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. As we bask in the joy of air travel, it's essential to acknowledge the unsung heroes who ensure our safety and comfort during every flight: the cabin crew. These dedicated professionals are the backbone of every successful flight, and their role goes far beyond serving meals and offering a friendly smile. Behind the scenes, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and similar aviation authorities lay down comprehensive regulations that govern the lives of cabin crew, making air travel the epitome of safety, service, and efficiency.

Safety Above All

Safety is the bedrock of aviation, and no one understands this better than the cabin crew. DGCA regulations play a pivotal role in ensuring that these brave individuals are equipped with the necessary training and knowledge to handle any in-flight emergency. From evacuations during critical situations to addressing medical emergencies with composure and efficiency, the training provided to cabin crew is extensive and rigorous. This emphasis on safety creates an environment where passengers can confidently place their trust in the hands of these skilled professionals.

Standardizing Excellence

Uniformity in training and procedures is essential in an industry as vast and dynamic as aviation. DGCA regulations promote consistency among cabin crew members, regardless of the airline they represent. By setting standard practices and expectations, these regulations create a unified front of professionals who are well-prepared to handle any challenge thrown their way. This commitment to excellence is what sets aviation apart as one of the safest modes of travel.

Caring for Passengers' Comfort and Experience

Beyond their safety responsibilities, cabin crew are the front-line ambassadors of hospitality in the sky. DGCA regulations encompass guidelines for customer service, in-flight interactions, and passenger experiences. From the warm greetings at the entrance of the aircraft to the attentive service during the flight, these regulations ensure that passengers feel welcomed and well-cared for throughout their journey.

Prioritizing Health and Well-being

The demanding nature of the aviation industry can take a toll on cabin crew members. To protect their health and well-being, DGCA regulations mandate rest periods and duty time limitations. These measures prevent fatigue and burnout, ensuring that cabin crew are mentally and physically prepared to perform their duties effectively, even on long-haul flights.

Preparedness for Emergencies

While air travel is generally safe, unforeseen emergencies can occur. DGCA regulations equip cabin crew with the necessary skills to handle turbulence, medical incidents, and security threats calmly and professionally. This preparedness instills confidence in both cabin crew and passengers, allowing them to focus on their roles during challenging situations.

The DGCA and similar aviation authorities play a crucial role in shaping the lives of cabin crew and, by extension, the aviation industry as a whole. By upholding the highest standards of safety, service, and professionalism, these regulations ensure that each flight is a seamless and secure experience for passengers. The dedication and commitment of cabin crew, coupled with the support of regulatory frameworks, make air travel not only an incredible feat of engineering but also a testament to the human spirit of cooperation and care.

Next time you board a flight and are greeted by a smiling cabin crew member, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication that go into making your journey safe, comfortable, and unforgettable. The magic of flight is not just in soaring through the skies but in the hands and hearts of those who make it all possible.

In the face of challenges, we keep calm, fly on, and always put safety and service first.

Decoding the DGCA Guidelines

Cabin Crew is required on board aircraft to ensure passenger safety. The effectiveness of cabin crew in fulfilling their safety-related duties can only be attained through proper and effective training.

Training may never replicate all the types of situations that cabin crew may face while performing their duties on board an aircraft. However, it can instill the fundamental knowledge, skills, attitudes, and confidence required for handling emergencies.

Cabin Crew have two distinct responsibilities on board an aircraft:

The most crucial yet least visible responsibility of cabin crew is the safety of passengers and the aircraft cabin. This responsibility demands specialized and thorough training to equip them with the knowledge and confidence needed to perform their safety-related duties effectively.
The second and more visible duty of cabin crew is their role as public relations officers for the airline, attending to passengers' needs and creating a positive impression through friendly and efficient service.

Irrespective of the operators' focus on cabin crew duties, from a regulatory standpoint, the primary function of cabin crew on board an aircraft is to ensure passenger safety by preventing and managing adverse situations in the aircraft cabin and providing guidance to all passengers during emergencies.

According to ICAO Annex 6(Full Flip-book in the end), operators must establish and maintain a training program approved by the State of the Operator, which all cabin crew members must complete before being assigned. Cabin crew should also undergo recurrent training annually.

This CAR (Civil Aviation Regulation) is issued under the provisions of Rule 133A of the Aircraft Rules for guidance and strict compliance.

These requirements apply to Scheduled, Non-Scheduled Operators, and other operators who carry Cabin Crew for onboard duties.

The greatest reward of being cabin crew is the chance to touch lives and create unforgettable memories

Definitions

Cabin Crew: A member of the flight crew assigned by the operator or pilot in command to carry out duties in the interest of passenger safety.

Senior Cabin Crew (Cabin Crew Incharge): An operator must designate a senior cabin crew member when multiple cabin crew are assigned. This individual is responsible for leading the team of cabin crew on board the aircraft and coordinating normal and emergency procedures as specified in the Training manual.

Check Cabin Crew: A cabin crew member with relevant experience identified and trained by the airline to conduct periodic checks on the online Cabin Crew and monitor the cabin.

Type of Aircraft/Aircraft Variant
Variants of an aeroplane type are considered different types if they differ in the following aspects:

Emergency exits operations.
Location and type of safety equipment.
Emergency Procedures.

Minimum Requirements/Qualifications for Cabin Safety Personnel

Cabin Crew

The following requirements, applicable to cabin crew, represent the minimum recommended qualifications:

Education: Must have passed the 10+2 examination from a recognized Board or University.
Age: Minimum age of 18 years.
Height: Should be able to reach safety equipment, open and close overhead bins in the aircraft from a standing position, and keep feet firmly placed on the floor when seated on the jump seat (brace position).

Medical Standards

Cabin crew must undergo a Medical Examination as per Class II Requirements for aircrew during the induction process. Repeat medical examinations should be conducted at two-year intervals until the age of forty years, and subsequently, medical examinations should take place annually.

Senior Cabin Crew

Any cabin crew with a total flying experience of five years, including one year on the aircraft type, and who demonstrates good leadership qualities shall be designated as Senior Cabin Crew after successfully completing the training programme in accordance with the above regulations.

Check Cabin Crew

A Senior Cabin Crew member with one year of operating experience in this capacity shall be designated as Check Cabin Crew after undergoing a one-day orientation course on auditing principles/line checks. The privileges of a Check Cabin Crew include conducting check flights for other line cabin crew members/Senior Cabin Crew and conducting surveillance flights on aircraft. These privileges can be exercised only during the currency of their qualification on the respective aircraft type.

Safety and Emergency Procedures (SEP) Instructor

Candidates for this position must be a B.E Graduate with one year of experience or have one year of experience as Check Cabin Crew or two years of experience as Senior Cabin Crew.

For Non-Scheduled operators, a cabin crew with continuous ten years of experience on commercial air transport jet can also be considered.

Cabin Crew CRM Instructor

To be eligible for this role, candidates must be a DGCA approved SEP Instructor with a minimum of two years of teaching experience or a pilot instructor who has successfully undergone an approved CRM facilitator course.

First Aid Instructor

Candidates for this position should be doctors holding an MBBS degree and familiar with the aircraft environment. Preferably, they should have a Post Graduate degree in Aviation Medicine.

Training Manuals

All operators are required to create a comprehensive training manual that includes the training program and other relevant instructions. This manual must be submitted to the DGCA for approval.

The operator should develop a Safety and Emergency Procedures (SEP) manual, outlining the content to be covered in the training, as per the guidelines specified. The SEP manual should be based on the Training manual and procedures prescribed by the aircraft manufacturer, as well as the procedures established by the organization and approved by the DGCA.

The operator must submit three controlled copies of the SEP Manual along with the Training Manual to the DGCA for review and approval.

Additionally, the operator is responsible for providing a Quick Reference Handbook that outlines various SEP procedures. This handbook serves as a concise and easily accessible resource for the Cabin Crew to quickly refer to during critical situations.

Training Programmes

Applications for the approval of training programmes should include the following information:

Training facilities, training setup, and audio-visual aids to be utilized during training.
Mode of assessments that will lead to the issuance of proof of successful completion.

The operator must ensure 95% attendance in each module of various training. Absenteeism shall be covered by holding additional classes, as applicable, for the concerned trainees. The operator must also maintain a record of attendance and make-up sessions.

The operator should establish procedures for cabin crew training related to Cabin Safety. Below are the minimum requirements, but the operator may increase the programmed hours to cater to the complexities of the aircraft type.

This includes:

Senior Cabin Crew Members

The minimum duration of the training for senior cabin crew members shall be 4 days/24 hours.

Training for senior cabin crew members should include:

Pre-flight Briefing

Operating as a crew.
Allocation of cabin crew stations and responsibilities.
Consideration of the particular flight, including aeroplane type, equipment, and passenger categories (e.g., disabled, infants, and stretcher cases).

Co-operation within the crew:

Discipline, responsibilities, and chain of command.
Importance of co-ordination and communication.
Pilot incapacitation.

Review of operators’ requirements and legal requirements:

Passengers safety briefing, safety cards.
Securing of galleys.
Stowage of cabin baggage.
Electronic equipment.
Procedures when fuelling with passengers on board.
Turbulence.
Death on board.
Inoperative system procedures.
Documentation.

Human Factors and Crew Resource Management:
All relevant elements discussed above, integrated into the training and covered to the level required for Senior Cabin Crew Course.

Apart from this, understanding accidents and incidents reporting, as well as understanding flight and duty time limitations and rest requirements, is also an important part of this course.

In case of induction of a new aircraft type, the qualification requirement for senior cabin crew shall be decided in consultation with the DGCA. However, as a general guidance, senior cabin crew deployed for the operation shall have a minimum of 01 year of operating experience as a senior cabin crew and have undergone a conversion course with a score of 90% in the written examination.

The operator shall establish procedures to select the next most suitably qualified cabin crew member to operate as a senior cabin crew member in the event of the nominated senior cabin crew member becoming unable to operate. Such procedures must be acceptable to the DGCA and take account of a cabin crew member’s operational experience.

The Initial Training

The operator shall ensure that each cabin crew member successfully completes initial training, in accordance with the rules and regulations given below, and the assessment prescribed below before undertaking type/conversion training.

The operator shall ensure that all elements of initial training are conducted by suitably qualified persons and should include:

Duties and responsibilities

The importance of cabin crew performing their duties in accordance with the Training Manual.
Continuing competence and fitness to operate as a cabin crew member with special regard to flight and duty time limitations and rest requirements.
An awareness of the aviation regulations relating to cabin crew and the role of the Authority.
General knowledge of relevant aviation terminology, theory of flight, Phases of flight, Sterile cockpit, passenger distribution, meteorology, and areas of operation.
Pre-flight briefing of the cabin crew and the provision of necessary safety information with regard to their specific duties.
The importance of ensuring that relevant documents and manuals are kept up-to-date with amendments provided by the operator.
The importance of identifying when cabin crew members have the authority and responsibility to initiate an evacuation and other emergency procedures.
The importance of safety duties and responsibilities and the need to respond promptly and effectively to emergency situations, covering a silent review to be done by Cabin Crew during take-off and landing.

Communication:

The importance of effective communication between cabin crew and flight crew, including techniques, common language, and terminology.

Passenger handling

Advice on the recognition and management of passengers who are, or become, intoxicated with alcohol or are under the influence of drugs or are aggressive.
Methods used to motivate passengers and the crowd control necessary to expedite an aeroplane evacuation.
Regulations covering the safe stowage of cabin baggage (including cabin service items) and the risk of it becoming a hazard to occupants of the cabin or otherwise obstructing or damaging safety equipment or aeroplane exits.
The importance of correct seat allocation with reference to aeroplane mass and balance. Particular emphasis shall also be given to the seating of disabled passengers and the necessity of seating able-bodied passengers adjacent to unsupervised exits.
Duties to be undertaken in the event of encountering turbulence, including securing the cabin.
Conditions and precautions to be taken when live animals are carried in the cabin, Aircraft Rule 25A, and the carriage of Blind passengers traveling with a see-eye dog.

Medical aspects and First Aid:

Physiology of flight, including oxygen requirements and hypoxia.
Medical emergencies in aviation, including asthma, choking, heart attacks, stress reactions, allergic reactions, shock, stroke, epilepsy, diabetes, air sickness, hyperventilation, gastro-intestinal disturbances, and emergency childbirth.
Practical cardio-pulmonary resuscitation by each cabin crew member, having regard to the aeroplane environment and using a specifically designed dummy.
Basic first aid and survival training, including care of the unconscious, burns, wounds, fractures, and soft tissue injuries.
Travel health and hygiene, including the risk of contact with infectious diseases, especially when operating into tropical and sub-tropical areas. Reporting of infectious diseases, protection from infection, and avoidance of water-borne and food-borne illnesses.

Security procedures, AVSEC Training, including the provisions of ICAO/BCAS(Details in flip-book format given below)

Dangerous Goods training as prescribed(Details in flip-books at the end of the blog)

Fire and Smoke Procedural Training:

Emphasis on the responsibility of cabin crew to deal promptly with emergencies involving fire and smoke and, in particular, emphasis on identifying the actual source of the fire.
The importance of informing the flight crew immediately, as well as the specific actions necessary for coordination and assistance, when fire or smoke is discovered.
The necessity for frequent checking of potential fire-risk areas, including toilets, and the associated smoke detectors.
The classification of fires and the appropriate type of extinguishing agents and procedures for particular fire situations, the techniques of application of extinguishing agents, the consequences of misapplication, and use in a confined space.

Water Survival Training:
The operator shall ensure that water survival training includes the actual donning and use of personal flotation equipment in water by each cabin crew member. Before first operating on an aeroplane fitted with life-rafts or other similar equipment, training must be given on the use of this equipment, as well as actual practice in water.

Survival Training:
The operator shall ensure that survival training is appropriate to the areas of operation (e.g., polar, desert, jungle, or sea).

Crew Resource Management:
Crew Resource Management (CRM) training is a crucial aspect that operators must ensure is fulfilled. An Introductory CRM Course is mandatory for all cabin crew members before they are assigned to operate.

For those already working as cabin crew in commercial air transportation and haven't completed the introductory course, they must do so before their next required recurrent training and/or checking. The training should cover all essential elements of CRM to ensure a high level of competency among the cabin crew members.

Type/Conversion & Differences Training:

Type/Conversion Training, supplemented by a minimum of 03 aeroplane visits, and shall include the following:

General
An operator shall ensure that: (a) During Type/Conversion and differences training, training is given on the location, removal, and use of all safety and survival equipment carried on the aeroplane, as well as all normal and emergency procedures related to the aeroplane type, variant, and configuration to be operated.

Fire and Smoke Practical Training
An operator shall ensure that: (a) Each cabin crew member receives realistic and practical training in the use of all firefighting equipment, including protective clothing representative of that carried in the aeroplane. This training must include:

Extinguishing a fire characteristic of an aeroplane interior fire, except that, in the case of Halon extinguishers, an alternative extinguishing agent may be used.
Donning and using protective breathing equipment in an enclosed, preferably simulated smoke-filled environment.

Operation of Doors and Exits.
An operator shall ensure that:

(a) Each cabin crew member operates and actually opens each type or variant of normal and emergency exits in the normal and emergency modes, including failure of power assist systems where fitted.

This includes practicing the actions and forces required to operate and deploy evacuation slides. This training shall be conducted in an aeroplane or representative training device.

(b) The operation of all other exits, such as flight deck windows, is demonstrated.

Evacuation Slide Training
An operator shall ensure that:

(a) Each cabin crew member descends an evacuation slide from a height representative of the aeroplane main deck sill height.

(b) The slide is fitted to an aeroplane or a representative training device.

Evacuation Procedures and Other Emergency Situations
An operator shall ensure that:

Emergency evacuation training includes the recognition of planned or unplanned evacuations on land or water. This training must include recognition of when exits are unusable or when evacuation equipment is unserviceable.
Each cabin crew member is trained to deal with the following:

(i) An in-flight fire, with particular emphasis on identifying the actual source of the fire.
(ii) Severe air turbulence.
(iii) Sudden decompression, including the donning of portable oxygen equipment by each cabin crew member.
(iv) Other in-flight emergencies, including Bomb Threat and Hi-Jack.

Crowd Control
An operator shall ensure that training is provided on the practical aspects of crowd control in various emergencies, as applicable to the aeroplane type. This training should include:

Communications between the flight crew and cabin crew and the use of all communications equipment, including the difficulties of coordination in a smoke-filled environment.
Verbal commands.
The physical contact that may be needed to encourage people out of an exit and onto a slide.
The redirection of passengers away from unusable exits.
The marshalling of passengers away from the aeroplane.
The evacuation of disabled passengers.
Authority and leadership.

Crew Incapacitation

(a) Pilot Incapacitation. An operator shall ensure that each cabin crew member is trained in the procedure for flight crew member incapacitation and shall operate the seat and harness mechanisms. Training in the use of flight crew members’ oxygen system and the use of the flight crew members’ checklists, where required by the operator’s SOPs, shall be conducted by a practical demonstration.

(b) Cabin Crew Incapacitation. An operator shall ensure that each cabin crew member is trained in the procedure for cabin crew member incapacitation during normal and emergency procedures.

Safety Equipment
An operator shall ensure that each cabin crew member receives realistic training on and demonstration of, the location and use of safety equipment, including the following:

Slides, and where non-self-supporting slides are carried, the use of any associated ropes.
Life rafts and slide-rafts, including the equipment attached to, and/or carried in, the raft.
Lifejackets, infant lifejackets, and flotation cushions.
Dropdown oxygen system.
First-aid oxygen.
Fire extinguishers.
Fire axe or crow-bar.
Emergency lights, including torches.
Communications equipment, including megaphones.
Survival packs, including their contents.
Pyrotechnics (Actual or representative devices).
First-aid kits, emergency medical kits, their contents, and emergency medical equipment.
Other cabin safety equipment or systems where applicable.

Passenger Briefing/Safety Demonstrations
An operator shall ensure that training is given in the preparation of passengers for normal and emergencies. In an emergency during a flight, passengers are instructed in such emergency action as may be appropriate to the circumstances. This includes overwing passenger briefing before take-off and the selection and briefing of able-bodied passengers.

Crew Resource Management
An operator shall ensure that each cabin crew member, before being first assigned to duties, completes the Operator’s CRM training and airplane-specific CRM training as required by the operator's SOPs.

Familiarization

Following the completion of type/conversion training, the operator must ensure that each cabin crew member undertakes familiarization before operating as part of the minimum cabin crew complement.

New Entrant Cabin Crew:
New entrant cabin crew members with no previous comparable operating experience should:

Participate in a visit to the aircraft they will operate on.
Undertake familiarization flights consisting of four sectors, as described in paragraph 6.4.3 below.

Cabin Crew Operating on a Subsequent Aircraft Type:
Cabin crew members assigned to operate on a subsequent aircraft type with the same operator should either participate in a familiarization flight as described in paragraph below or take part in an aircraft visit.

Familiarization Flights:
During familiarization flights, the cabin crew member should be in addition to the minimum number of cabin crew required for the flight. The flights should be conducted under the supervision of a senior cabin crew member and structured to involve the cabin crew member in safety-related pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight duties. The familiarization flights should be documented as part of each cabin crew member's training record.

Aircraft Visits:
The aircraft visit should provide an overview of the aircraft's exterior, interior, and systems, including the following:

Interphone and public address systems
Evacuation alarm systems
Emergency lighting
Smoke detection systems
Safety/emergency equipment
Flight deck, including the demonstration of procedures for handling incapacitated crew
Cabin crew stations
Toilet compartments
Galleys, galley security, and water shut-off
Cargo areas if accessible from the passenger compartment during flight
Circuit breaker panels located in the passenger compartment
Crew rest areas
Exit locations and their environments

Recurrent Training

The operator must ensure that each cabin crew member undergoes recurrent training, covering their assigned actions in normal and emergency procedures relevant to the type(s) and/or variant(s) of aircraft on which they operate. The recurrent training should include both theoretical and practical instructions and assessments.

The program of training should include the following topics:

Emergency procedures, including pilot incapacitation
Evacuation procedures, including crowd control techniques
Touch-drills for opening normal and emergency exits for passenger evacuation
The location and handling of emergency equipment, including oxygen systems, lifejackets, portable oxygen, and protective breathing equipment (PBE)
Medical aspects and first aid, first aid kits, emergency medical kits, their contents, and emergency medical equipment
Stowage of articles in the cabin
Security procedures
Incident and accident review
Crew Resource Management (CRM): An operator must ensure that CRM training satisfies the specified CRM elements to the level required for Annual Recurrent CRM Training. This training should be covered within a three-year cycle. The CRM syllabus should be managed by a cabin crew CRM instructor. When CRM training is provided through stand-alone modules, it must be conducted by at least one cabin crew CRM instructor.
Appropriate Civil Aviation Requirements, including FDTL, FTL, and rest requirements
Latest circulars/instructions issued by DGCA, the operator, and the manufacturer

Drills

Emergency drill requirements must be accomplished during Ab-Initio Training and at intervals not exceeding 3 years during recurrent practical training. Each cabin crew member must:

Operate and actually open each type or variant of normal and emergency exit in normal and emergency modes, including failure of power assist systems if fitted.
Descend an evacuation slide from a height representative of the aircraft main deck sill height.
Demonstrate the operation of all other exits, including flight deck windows.
Undergo realistic and practical training in the use of all fire-fighting equipment, including protective clothing, representative of that carried on the aircraft. This includes extinguishing a fire characteristic of an aircraft interior fire and using protective breathing equipment in a simulated smoke-filled environment.
Demonstrate and use the life-raft or slide-raft where fitted and perform the donning and use of personal flotation equipment in water.
Additionally, the cabin crew must observe and participate in drills such as removal from the aircraft (or training device) and inflation of life rafts, transfer of slide/raft packs from one door to another, deployment, inflation, and detachment of slide/raft packs, and emergency evacuations including the use of slides.

Refresher Training

An operator must ensure that each cabin crew member who has been absent from all flying duties for 3 to 6 months and remains within the period of validity of the previous recurrent training completes refresher training specified in the Training Manual as prescribed below.

If a cabin crew member has not been absent from all flying duties but has not operated on a type of aircraft as a cabin crew member in the preceding 6 months, before undertaking duties on that type, the cabin crew member must either complete refresher training on the type or operate four re-familiarization sectors.

Refresher training must include at least the following:

Emergency procedures, including pilot incapacitation
Evacuation procedures, including crowd control techniques
The operation and actual opening of each type or variant of normal and emergency exit in normal and emergency modes, including failure of power assist systems if fitted. This training must be conducted in an aircraft or representative training device.
Demonstration of the operation of all other exits, including flight deck windows.
The location and handling of emergency equipment, including oxygen systems, and the donning of lifejackets, portable oxygen, and protective breathing equipment.
Latest circulars/instructions issued by DGCA, the operator, and the manufacturer.

Transition Training

Transition training duration: 5 programmed days/40 hours.

Emergency procedures, including pilot incapacitation
Evacuation procedures, including crowd control techniques
The operation and actual opening of each type or variant of normal and emergency exit in normal and emergency modes, including failure of power assist systems if fitted. This training must be conducted in an aircraft or representative training device.
The location and handling of emergency equipment, including oxygen systems, and the donning of lifejackets, portable oxygen, and protective breathing equipment.
Operators' policies and procedures.
Crew Resource Management (CRM): Complete the Operator's CRM training and aeroplane type-specific CRM in accordance with CRM guidelines.

CRM Training

Crew Resource Management (CRM) is a set of principles and practices designed to optimize the utilization of all available resources, including crew members, aircraft systems, and supporting facilities, to ensure safe and efficient operations in aviation. The primary objective of CRM is to enhance the communication and management skills of the crew, placing a strong emphasis on effective coordination and fostering two-way communication among all team members.

CRM recognizes that flying an aircraft involves a dynamic and complex environment, where unforeseen challenges can arise at any moment. By integrating CRM into crew training and operational practices, aviation organizations aim to improve decision-making processes and minimize the likelihood of errors or accidents.

Effective CRM training equips crew members with the tools to work cohesively as a team, capitalizing on the diverse skills and expertise of each individual. It encourages open communication and the sharing of information among crew members, creating a culture of trust and collaboration. CRM fosters a non-punitive environment where crew members feel comfortable raising concerns, discussing potential issues, and collectively working towards safe and efficient outcomes.

One of the essential elements of CRM is the understanding of human factors and the impact they can have on crew performance. By recognizing how factors like stress, fatigue, and workload can affect decision-making, CRM seeks to mitigate their influence and empower crew members to manage these factors proactively.

CRM is not solely limited to addressing emergencies or critical situations. It is an integral part of everyday operations, facilitating efficient workflows, problem-solving, and effective delegation of tasks. By continuously honing their CRM skills, crew members build resilience and adaptability, which are crucial in responding to unexpected challenges in the dynamic aviation environment.

CRM plays a pivotal role in fostering a safety-oriented culture within the aviation industry. It is not just a set of procedures but a mindset that empowers crew members to work together as a cohesive team, leveraging their collective expertise to ensure safe, efficient, and successful flights. Emphasizing CRM in crew training and operations contributes significantly to the overall safety and success of aviation operations.

General Principles for CRM Training for Cabin Crew

Cabin crew CRM training should focus on issues related to cabin crew duties, making it distinct from flight crew CRM training. Nevertheless, it is essential to address the coordination of tasks and functions between the flight crew and cabin crew.
Operators must provide combined training for flight crew and cabin crew within 2 years of Initial Training, including feedback, as appropriate to the specifications. This training should be conducted by both cabin crew CRM instructors and Flight Crew CRM Instructors.
CRM principles should be integrated into relevant parts of cabin crew training when applicable.
CRM training should involve group discussions and the review of accidents and incidents through case-based studies.
Whenever feasible, relevant portions of CRM training should be incorporated into the training conducted in cabin mock-ups or aircraft.
Introductory CRM Course, Operator’s CRM Training, and Aeroplane Type-Specific CRM may be combined.

Each type of training must include the following elements of CRM:

Introductory CRM Course
The Introductory CRM Course should provide cabin crew members with a basic knowledge of Human Factors relevant to the understanding of CRM. Cabin crew members from different operators may attend the same Introductory CRM Course if operations are similar.

Operator's CRM Training
Operator's CRM training should apply the knowledge gained in the Introductory CRM Course to enhance communication and coordination skills of cabin crew members relevant to the operator's culture and type of operation.

Aeroplane Type Specific CRM
Aeroplane Type Specific CRM should be integrated into all appropriate phases of the operator's Type/conversion training on the specific aeroplane type. It should apply the knowledge gained in previous CRM training to aircraft-specific details, including narrow/wide-bodied aeroplanes, single/multi-deck aeroplanes, and flight crew and cabin crew composition.

Annual Recurrent Training
CRM training should be integrated into all appropriate phases of recurrent training and may include stand-alone modules. It should include areas identified by the operator's accident prevention and flight safety program.

CRM Training for Senior Cabin Crew
CRM training for Senior Cabin Crew Members should apply the knowledge gained in previous CRM training and operational experience relevant to the specific duties and responsibilities of a Senior Cabin Crew Member. The senior cabin crew member should demonstrate the ability to manage operations and make appropriate leadership/management decisions.

Coordination Between Flight Crew and Cabin Crew Training Departments
Effective liaison between flight crew and cabin crew training departments should be established. Provisions should be made for flight and cabin crew instructors to observe and comment on each other's training. Consideration should be given to creating flight deck scenarios on video for playback to all cabin crew during recurrent training, and opportunities for cabin crew, especially senior cabin crew, to participate in Flight Crew exercises.

Assessment

An operator must ensure that each cabin crew member undergoes assessment during or following the completion of the training required. The assessment is conducted to verify the proficiency of cabin crew members in carrying out normal and emergency safety duties. These assessments must be performed by qualified personnel.

The assessment should be conducted using the appropriate method based on the type of training, as outlined in the table below:

For each cabin crew member, the minimum pass requirement shall be 80% in both the oral and written tests for all courses where an assessment is prescribed.

Unsatisfactory Performance
Any cabin crew member failing the DGCA written or oral test must undergo a corrective training program for 5 days and be reassessed by an instructor before obtaining reapproval from the DGCA.

In the case of subsequent failures after re-assessment, the operator must prescribe a procedure in the Training Manual for appropriate action.

Operation on More Than One Type or Variant

An operator must ensure that each cabin crew member does not operate on more than three aircraft types; however, they may operate on variants.

When determining the similarity of exit operation, the following factors should be assessed to justify the finding of similarity:

a. Exit arming/disarming
b. Direction of movement of the operating handle
c. Direction of exit opening
d. Power assist mechanisms
e. Assist means, e.g., evacuation slides.
Self-help exits, such as Type III and Type IV exits, need not be included in this assessment.

When determining the similarity of location and type of portable safety equipment, the following factors should be assessed to justify the finding of similarity:

All portable safety equipment is stowed in the same, or in exceptional circumstances, in substantially the same location
All portable safety equipment requires the same method of operation
Portable safety equipment includes:
i. Firefighting equipment
ii. Protective Breathing Equipment (PBE)
iii. Oxygen equipment
iv. Crew lifejackets
v. Torches
vi. Megaphones
vii. First aid equipment
viii. Survival equipment and signaling equipment
ix. Other safety equipment where applicable.

Type-specific emergency procedures include, but are not limited to, the following:

Land and water evacuation
In-flight fire
Decompression
Pilot incapacitation.

When changing the aircraft type or variant during a series of flights, the cabin crew safety briefing should include a representative sample of type-specific normal and emergency procedures and safety equipment applicable to the actual aircraft type to be operated.

Training Records

An operator must:

Maintain records of all training and assessments required
Make the records of all initial, type/conversion, and recurrent training and assessment available on request.

9.2 An operator must maintain training records of all trainings and assessments undertaken by the cabin crew and instructors during their service with the operator until 2 years after they have relinquished/retired from service.

Expatriate Crew – Training Program

The training of expatriate crew shall commence only after obtaining necessary clearances for foreign personnel seeking employment in India. Expatriate crew shall undergo full aircraft type initial training, including First Aid, Human Factors, and Crew Resource Management, as per the approved syllabus. Expatriate cabin crew members are not allowed for operation on domestic flights.

Training Facilities

Approval of Training Equipment and Personnel Conducting Training and Testing of such Equipment

Whenever the operator utilizes training facilities, approval must be obtained for the facility, equipment, and personnel utilized for training/maintenance from the DGCA before commencing the training.

The operator must also establish a maintenance program to keep the facility operational, and a log of such maintenance activities must be maintained. If the device is unserviceable for more than six months, re-approval by the DGCA is required.

Classrooms

The classroom should provide reasonable working space for each student. The overall size of the classroom should be determined by multiplying the expected number of students by 2 square meters. All rooms should be well-lit, ventilated, and maintained at a comfortable working temperature.

The minimum required furniture is a suitable whiteboard, and for each student, a desk or table and chair. The classroom should also have required training aids, such as an overhead projector (OHP) with motion pictures on emergency escape and survival procedures, and all emergency equipment carried on board for each aircraft type.

The maximum permissible class strength shall be 25.

Training Methods

Training may include the use of mock-up facilities, video presentations, computer-based training, and other types of training. A reasonable balance between the different training methods should be achieved.

Representative Training Devices

11.3.1 A representative training device may be used for cabin crew training as an alternative to the actual aircraft or required equipment. The representative training device should accurately represent the aircraft in relevant particulars, including layout, exits, safety equipment, and operating mechanisms.

Door Trainer

The use of modern training and simulator systems, such as Emergency Evacuation and Door Trainers, provides an acceptable level of practical experience expected in actual occurrences. Operators may provide training to their crew on the door trainer for the type of aircraft instead of on an actual aircraft.

Aircraft Mockup

On larger aircraft with a seating capacity of 250 or more, the operator shall have an aircraft mockup for training purposes.

Fire and Smoke Training Facilities

Practical fire and smoke training must be conducted under the supervision of an instructor with the knowledge, ability, and experience to conduct such training. The training should simulate cabin fire and preferably smoke-filled conditions, with the cabin crew donning protective breathing equipment (PBE) and experiencing restricted communication.

If the operator lacks such a facility, training may be carried out in other approved facilities of other operators. The facility should be equipped with sufficient fire prevention aids and firefighting equipment, and necessary approvals must be obtained from DGCA and appropriate local authorities, if required.

Water Survival Training Facilities

The water survival training shall be conducted at a water body/pool with a minimum depth of 12 feet.

Training Program(Instructors)

The personnel appointed as instructors shall undergo the following minimum training program.

The Nodal Officer shall assess the instructors on their competency and proficiency before granting approval as instructors by the DGCA.

SEP Instructor
The SEP Instructor shall be responsible for imparting effective and efficient SEP training to cockpit crew and cabin crew.

On successful completion of the understudy period, the instructor shall appear for DGCA Board Viva/Presentation before being granted approval as an instructor.

The concept of understudy is to ensure that each instructor undergoes a fixed number of qualification hours, thereby acquiring standard proficiency in conducting classes for cabin crew. The operator shall maintain records of an instructor's activities during the understudy period.

Understudy for B.E. or equivalent (total 1 year):

Understudy for Cabin Crew (graduates/10+2; total 6 months)

Note: Modules shall be prepared for Initial Training, Type/Conversion Training, Emergency Training, and Recurrent Training as a minimum requirement. Any subsequent modules may be prepared as required.

Unsatisfactory Performance

Initial Viva-Voce: Reappear after corrective training of 15 days. An instructor performing unsatisfactorily in the second VIVA shall undergo the entire ab-initio course before being re-assessed.
DGCA Board Viva/Presentation: Repeat the entire qualifying program from the ab-initio course.

Subsequent Approvals on Additional Aircraft Type

For subsequent approvals on additional aircraft types, a DGCA-approved instructor must successfully complete the Conversion Course with 90% marks in the written examination. They must also pass the aircraft viva/practical examination conducted by the DGCA.

Instructor Re-Approval

In cases where an approved instructor seeks employment in another airline or with another type of operator, the training program shall include:

Cabin Crew CRM Instructors

The operator should ensure that all personnel conducting relevant training are suitably qualified to integrate elements of CRM into all appropriate training programs. A training and standardization program for CRM instructors should be established.

Cabin crew CRM instructors should:

Have suitable experience of commercial air transport as a cabin crew member.
Have received instruction on Human Factors Performance Limitations.
Have completed an Introductory CRM Course and the Operator's CRM training.
Have received instructions in training skills to conduct CRM courses.
Be supervised by suitably qualified CRM instructors when conducting their first CRM training course.

An experienced non-cabin crew CRM instructor may continue to be a cabin crew CRM instructor, provided that the provisions stated are satisfied, and that a satisfactory knowledge has been demonstrated of the nature of the operation and the relevant specific aircraft types.

In such circumstances, the operator should be satisfied that the instructor has suitable knowledge of the cabin crew working environment.

Instructors integrating elements of CRM into conversion, recurrent training, or Senior Cabin Crew Member training should have acquired relevant knowledge of human factors and completed appropriate CRM training.

AVSEC Instructor

The nominated approved Instructor (from the security background) must successfully complete the AVSEC Instructor Training Program and be approved by the Cabin Safety Directorate to impart aviation security training.

DGR Training – Instructor

As detailed in Section 3 Series L Part III.

Annual Refresher

All SEP and Cabin Crew CRM Instructors must undergo an Annual Refresher of 2 programmed days/12 hours followed by an examination with a passing score of 90%. The continuation of approval will depend on the successful completion of the Refresher Course.

SEP Card

To facilitate inspection by the Authorized Officers, all crews must carry their certificate of proficiency issued by the Operator whenever they are operating a flight (SEP card).

The SEP card shall be issued by the operator after successful completion of initial training by the individual.

It should document all the training, drills, and other courses undertaken by the crew with their expiry dates.
It is the responsibility of the individual crew and the operator to ensure that all the entries are correct and valid.
The SEP card must be carried by the individual crew at all times while on duty.

PS: Hope you enjoyed understanding and decoding this DGCA regulation, which is a must-know for all aspiring and practicing cabin crew. For updated circulars and regulations, we advise you to visit the DGCA website.

Impact of DGCA Regulation on Cabin Crew

Some general examples of the potential impacts that DGCA regulations on cabin crew could have on their lives based on the known effects of such regulations. Please note that these examples are illustrative and may not reflect the most recent developments:

Work Hours and Rest Periods: DGCA regulations often set limits on the number of hours cabin crew members can work in a day or a week and require adequate rest periods between flights. Adherence to these regulations can help prevent fatigue and burnout, leading to improved overall well-being and job satisfaction for cabin crew.
Safety and Emergency Training: DGCA regulations mandate rigorous safety and emergency training for cabin crew members. Compliance with these regulations can enhance their ability to handle in-flight emergencies effectively, ensuring the safety of passengers and crew and potentially reducing the number and severity of incidents.
Health and Medical Requirements: DGCA regulations may specify certain medical requirements for cabin crew members, ensuring that they are physically fit to perform their duties. By maintaining a healthy and fit cabin crew, airlines can minimize the risk of in-flight medical emergencies and improve the overall quality of service.
Uniform and Grooming Standards: DGCA regulations may include guidelines for the uniform and grooming standards of cabin crew members. While this may seem like a minor aspect, it can contribute to the professionalism and image of the airline, which, in turn, can impact the morale and confidence of the cabin crew.
Language Proficiency: Ensuring cabin crew members are proficient in the required language(s) for communication onboard can enhance communication effectiveness and reduce misunderstandings, contributing to a smoother and safer flight experience.
Impact on Career Progression: DGCA regulations may establish minimum requirements and qualifications for cabin crew positions. Meeting these standards can open up opportunities for career advancement within the aviation industry, motivating cabin crew to excel in their roles.
Compliance and Safety Culture: DGCA regulations foster a culture of compliance and safety within the airline industry. A strong emphasis on safety can lead to better adherence to safety protocols and guidelines, creating a safer working environment for cabin crew.

It's important to understand that the actual impact of DGCA regulations on the lives of cabin crew members would vary based on several factors, including the specific regulations in place, the airline's commitment to compliance, and the overall industry practices.

For comprehensive and up-to-date insights, you may want to refer to recent case studies and reports published by aviation authorities, research institutions, or airlines that have studied the effects of DGCA regulations on cabin crew.

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