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What are Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL)?

Flight Duty Time Limitations are rules set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to manage crew fatigue. These norms ensure pilots and cabin crew receive proper rest between duties.

They include limits such as 8 hours daily, 35 weekly, 125 monthly, and 1,000 yearly.

Crew must also get rest equal to twice the flight time, with at least 10 hours in 24 hours.

Read on to learn more about FDTL rules in India.

Flight Duty Time Limitations FDTL new rules
Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL)

Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL)

Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) are legal limits on duty periods and flight hours.

The new FDTL Rules 2025 include rules on night duty, rest, and weekly breaks. They apply to pilots, co-pilots, and flight crew.

Core components of FDTL

  • Flight duty period (FDP): when crew are on operational duty.

  • Maximum flight hours: limits on hours flown in a period.

  • Minimum rest: required continuous rest between duties.

  • Weekly rest: multi-day uninterrupted rest each week.

New DGCA Flight Duty Time Limitations FDTL Rules

The new rules define “rest”, “local night”, “local day” and other terms. It also includes:

  • Increased pilot’s mandatory weekly rest period: 48 hours
  • Flying hours into the night cap: 10 hours
  • Weekly landings a pilot can make between midnight & early morning: 2
  • Pilot’s quarterly fatigue report to DGCA

Global Variants of FDTL: FAA, EASA

Different regulators use different limits.

  • FAA rules for US carriers.
  • India’s DGCA has its own FDTL circular and guidelines.
  • EASA and ICAO also publish fatigue and duty guidance.

Typical limits you will see

Limits vary by operation type and crew size. For example, US rules cap flight duty at set FDP hours.

India’s rules increase continuous weekly rest to improve recovery.

Why regulators update Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL)

  • Regulators update rules to reduce fatigue risk.
  • They use research on circadian rhythms and human performance.
  • They also respond to incidents and operational trends.
    Thus updates aim to boost safety and predictability.

FDTL and airline operations

  • FDTL affect scheduling and roster design.
  • Airlines must balance safety with on-time performance.
  • Poor planning can force cancellations and chaos.
  • Recent events show how fragile schedules can be under new rules.

Fatigue Risk Management and FDTL

Modern safety systems use Fatigue Risk Management Systems.

These combine prescriptive limits with data-driven monitoring. They allow operators to manage fatigue proactively.

ICAO recommends integrating FRMS with FDTL policies.

What pilots and students should know

  • Know your regulator’s specific FDTL rules.
  • Understand how night duty and time zones affect rest.
  • Learn how cumulative duty can increase fatigue risk.
  • Be aware that conversion rules matter if you train abroad.

Credible sources for Flight Duty Time Limitations

  • DGCA FDTL circular and guidance.

  • FAA guidance on flight times and rest.

  • Recent news on FDTL and operational impact.

Join FMS Academy to Begin Your Pilot Journey

Find the right course for your pilot dreams. Start with the right guidance at FMS Aviation Academy.

Courses at FMS Academy

  1. DGCA Ground Classes: Comprehensive training for all 6 DGCA subjects.

  2. Pre-Type Rating Course: Upgrade your skills before your Type Rating.

    • Advanced Aircraft Systems & SOP Training

    • Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) & CRM

    • Glass Cockpit Orientation & Jet Handling

    • Simulator Practice & Assessment Prep

  3. Post-Type Rating Course: Bridge the gap between training and airline readiness.

    • Aircraft Systems & Technical Refresher

    • SOPs & Airline Procedures

    • Real-World Scenario Training

    • Performance Under Pressure: Entrance Preparation

    • Wide-Body Aircraft Insights

  4. Airline Entrance Preparation Course: Ace every stage of airline selection.

    • Written Test Preparation

    • Psychometric & Aptitude Test Prep

    • Simulator Training

    • Interview & Soft Skills Training

  5. Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) Course: DGCA-mandated subjects covered.

    • Air Navigation

    • Radio Aids & Instruments

    • Meteorology

    • Bonus: Flying logbook preparation (DGCA format), eGCA application guidance & Viva eligibility support

Why Join FMS Academy?

  • 4 Ground School Locations: Ahmedabad, Surat, Delhi & Upcoming in Dehradun

  • AI-Powered Learning Platform: India’s first smart DGCA preparation system

  • Expert Instruction: Learn directly from a Senior Airline Captain

  • One-on-One Counselling & Mentorship at every stage

  • Career-Focused Training: From DGCA exams to cadet programmes & airline selection

  • Trusted Track Record: 300+ students trained successfully across India

  • 5+ Partner Flying Schools for seamless flight training pathways

  • 10+ Years of Aviation Training Experience

  • Concept-Based Learning: Real understanding over rote memorization

  • Transparent Guidance: No misleading approvals or inflated claims

Conclusion

Flight Duty Time Limitations protect safety and pilots. They also reshape airline planning and passenger travel. If you aim for an airline career, learn FDTL well.

Join FMS to master rules, human factors, and career readiness.

📞 Contact FMS Aviation Academy for:

  • DGCA Ground Classes
  • Airline Entrance Exam Coaching
  • Career counseling for path selection
  • Comprehensive preparation strategy

🌐 www.fmsaviationacademy.com

FAQs on FDTL

Author

Picture of Devyani Gusain

Devyani Gusain

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