(THE GIST OF PIB) Electronic Personnel License

(FEBRUARY-2025)

Recently, the Union Civil Aviation Minister launched Electronic Personnel License (EPL) for pilots.

It is a digital version of a personnel license that will replace traditional physical licenses for pilots.
It will be securely accessible via the eGCA Mobile Application, ensuring a seamless and transparent process in alignment with the Government of India’s “Ease of Doing Business” and “Digital India” initiatives.
The introduction of EPL follows International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Amendment 178 to Annex 1 – Personnel Licensing, which encourages Member States to adopt electronic licenses for improved security and efficiency.
With this advancement, India becomes the second country globally to implement this advanced system, following approval from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
It is implemented by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

It is an intergovernmental specialized agency associated with the United Nations (UN).
It was established in 1947 by the Convention on International Civil Aviation (1944) known as Chicago Convention.

It is dedicated to developing safe and efficient international air transportfor peaceful purposes and ensuring a reasonable opportunity for every state to operate international airlines.
It sets standards and regulations necessary for aviation safety, security and facilitation, efficiency, and economic development of air transport as well as to improve the environmental performance of aviation.
It also serves as a clearinghouse for cooperation and discussion on civil aviation issues among its member states.
It also promotes regional and international agreements aimed at liberalizing aviation markets.