Pilot organizations reject reform of the civil aviation law

Santo Domingo.- A coalition of pilot organizations in the Dominican Republic has vehemently opposed the handling of the amendment to Civil Aviation Law 491-06.

President Luis Abinader recently issued Decree 172-24, declaring the ongoing modernization of the legal and regulatory framework governing civil aviation a top national priority.

Under this directive, the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC) is tasked with leading a comprehensive review and update of Civil Aviation Law 491-06, enacted on December 22, 2006, in alignment with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

However, the National Association of Pilots of the Dominican Republic (ANP), the Dominican General Aviation Association (ADAG), Aeroclub Quisqueya, Inc., and the Captains Council have jointly expressed their opposition to the reform, contending that none of the legislative steps taken by the National Congress to approve the new law were coordinated with any of the organizations representing Dominican pilots.

In a formal statement, the coalition asserted that the proposed regulations would impose exorbitant fines for what they perceive as routine operational errors committed by pilots, a departure from contemporary operational safety principles. They warned that such measures not only signify a significant regression in safety standards but also elevate the risk of accidents and incidents.

The coalition of pilot organizations urged for prudence in the reform process, advocating for inclusive dialogue within the sector to foster the development of a modernized civil aviation law reflective of national interests and contemporary aviation practices.