DGCA Rules of the Air – CPL/ATPL Study Notes

👨‍✈️ 2. PIC Authority, Responsibilities & Psychoactive Substances

📘 RESPONSIBILITY FOR COMPLIANCE — PIC

The Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of an aircraft shall, whether manipulating the controls or not, be responsible for the operation of the aircraft in accordance with the rules of the air.

Exception: The PIC may depart from these rules in circumstances that render such departure absolutely necessary in the interests of safety.

✅ PRE-FLIGHT ACTION

Before beginning a flight, the PIC shall become familiar with all available information appropriate to the intended operation.

For flights away from the vicinity of an aerodrome, and for all IFR flights, pre-flight action shall include:

A careful study of available current weather reports and forecasts
Taking into consideration fuel requirements
An alternative course of action if the flight cannot be completed as planned

📘 AUTHORITY OF PIC

The PIC of an aircraft shall have final authority as to the disposition of the aircraft while in command.

⛔ PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCES — STRICT PROHIBITION

No person whose function is critical to the safety of aviation (safety-sensitive personnel) shall undertake that function while under the influence of any psychoactive substance, by reason of which human performance is impaired.

No such person shall engage in any kind of problematic use of substances.

Area	Minimum Height AGL
Over congested areas / cities / towns or open-air assembly — within 600m radius of aircraft	300 m (1,000 ft) above the highest obstacle
Elsewhere (outside congested areas)	150 m (500 ft) above ground or water

🪂 6. Dropping / Spraying / Towing / Parachutes / Acrobatic Flight

⛔ DROPPING OR SPRAYING

Nothing shall be dropped or sprayed from an aircraft in flight except under conditions prescribed in Rule 26 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 and as indicated by relevant information, advice and/or clearance from the appropriate ATS unit.

⛔ TOWING — INDIA SPECIFIC

No aircraft shall be towed by another aircraft.

Objects other than aircraft shall be towed by an aircraft, in accordance with requirements prescribed by the Director General and as indicated by relevant ATS information/clearance.

⚠ Towing of Aircraft is NOT permitted in India.

⛔ PARACHUTE DESCENTS

No person shall, except in an emergency, descend by means of a parachute from an aircraft, and no person shall drop or cause to be dropped from an aircraft in flight any article, whether attached to a parachute or not, unless:

The descent/drop is made in accordance with conditions or limitations in general or special order of the Central Government in writing (Rule 26 of Aircraft Rules, 1937).

⚠ Parachute descent NOT allowed in normal conditions in India.

✈ Acrobatic Flight — Conditions & Prohibitions

✅ WHEN CAN AN AIRCRAFT BE USED FOR AEROBATICS?

a) It shall be flown by a licensed pilot, or if by a person qualifying for a licence, they must be accompanied by a licensed pilot instructor
b) If passengers are carried, their previous consent in writing must be obtained
c) The pilot must satisfy himself that every person carried is properly secured by safety belts
d) Aerobatics shall be commenced at such a height to permit completion of the manoeuvre at a height of not less than 600 metres (2,000 ft) above the ground, or such higher height as specified in the Certificate of Airworthiness for aircraft in the aerobatic category.

⛔ NO PERSON SHALL FLY ACROBATICALLY:

So as to constitute a hazard to air traffic
In the vicinity of an aerodrome at a distance of less than 2 NM from the nearest point of the perimeter, unless flown at a height greater than 1,800 m (6,000 ft)
When flying over any city, town, village, populous area, or over any meeting/games/sports/public assembly — except where a written request has been made to the Director General by the promoters of such meeting.

Min. completion height: 600 m / 2,000 ft AGL

Near aerodrome: < 2 NM radius prohibited (unless > 1800m / 6000ft)

⚠️ 8. Avoidance of Collisions & Right-of-Way Rules

⛔ AVOIDANCE OF COLLISIONS — ABSOLUTE RESPONSIBILITY

Nothing in these rules shall relieve the PIC of an aircraft from the responsibility of taking such action, including collision avoidance manoeuvres based on Resolution Advisories (RA) provided by ACAS equipment, as well as to avert collision.

⛔ PROXIMITY

An aircraft shall NOT be operated in such proximity to other aircraft as to create a collision hazard.

🔄 RIGHT-OF-WAY RULES (In Flight)

📘 GENERAL PRINCIPLE

The aircraft that has the right-of-way shall maintain its heading and speed.

An aircraft obliged to keep out of the way shall avoid passing over, under or in front of the other, unless it passes well clear and takes into account the effect of aircraft wake turbulence.

🔄 RIGHT-OF-WAY PRIORITY PYRAMID (Give Way ↓ Has Priority ↑)

At top = highest priority; power-driven heavier-than-air aircraft gives way to airships, gliders & balloons

Situation	Rule	Key Point
Approaching Head-On	Each shall alter heading to the RIGHT	Both aircraft turn right simultaneously
Converging (same level)	Aircraft that has the other on its RIGHT shall give way	Except: Power-driven gives way to airships/gliders/balloons; Airships give way to gliders/balloons; Gliders give way to balloons; Power-driven gives way to aircraft towing objects
Overtaking	Overtaking aircraft keeps out of way by altering heading to the RIGHT	Overtaking aircraft = approaches from rear at angle <70° to plane of symmetry. Being overtaken = RIGHT OF WAY regardless of climbing, descending or level flight
Landing (general)	Aircraft in flight or on ground/water gives way to aircraft landing or in final approach	When two aircraft approaching to land — lower one has priority. But lower one cannot cut in front of another in final approach
Landing (multiple aircraft)	Aircraft at higher level gives way to aircraft at lower level	Power-driven heavier-than-air gives way to gliders; lower aircraft cannot abuse this rule
Emergency Landing	An aircraft aware that another is compelled to land shall give way to that aircraft	Absolute priority in emergencies
Taking Off	Aircraft taxiing gives way to aircraft taking off or about to take off	Taxiing aircraft yields to aircraft on takeoff roll

💡 STUDENT TIP — OVERTAKING DEFINITION

An overtaking aircraft is one approaching another from the rear on a line forming an angle of less than 70° with the plane of symmetry of the latter — i.e., positioned such that at night it cannot see either the port (left) OR starboard (right) navigation lights of the other aircraft.

Once overtaking, no subsequent change in relative positions absolves the overtaking aircraft from this obligation until it is entirely past and clear.

💡 10. Lights to be Displayed by Aircraft

✅ LIGHTS IN FLIGHT — MANDATORY DISPLAY PERIOD

From sunset to sunrise (or during any other period prescribed by the Director General), all aircraft in flight shall display:

a) Anti-collision lights — intended to attract attention to the aircraft
b) Navigation lights — intended to indicate the relative path of the aircraft to an observer

Other lights shall NOT be displayed if they are likely to be mistaken for navigation lights.

Note: Lights fitted for other purposes (landing lights, airframe floodlights) may be used in addition to anti-collision lights as specified in the Airworthiness Technical Manual (Doc 9051) to enhance aircraft conspicuity.

✅ LIGHTS ON GROUND (Movement Area) — From Sunset to Sunrise

a) All aircraft moving on the movement area shall display navigation lights
b) Unless stationary and otherwise adequately illuminated, all aircraft on the movement area shall display lights indicating the extremities of their structure
c) All aircraft operating on the movement area shall display lights to attract attention
d) All aircraft on the movement area whose engines are running shall display lights which indicate that fact

📘 ANTI-COLLISION LIGHTS — ALWAYS ON

All aircraft in flight and fitted with anti-collision lights shall display such lights also outside the period specified (sunset to sunrise)
All aircraft operating on the movement area of an aerodrome and fitted with anti-collision lights shall also display such lights outside the specified period

✅ WHEN MAY FLASHING LIGHTS BE SWITCHED OFF?

A pilot shall be permitted to switch off or reduce the intensity of any flashing lights if they:

a) Adversely affect the satisfactory performance of duties, or
b) Subject an outside observer to harmful dazzle

📄 13. Flight Plans

⛔ WHEN IS A FLIGHT PLAN MANDATORY?

A flight plan shall be submitted prior to operating (exceptions for nano/micro RPA below 50 ft/200 ft AGL in uncontrolled airspace/enclosed premises):

a) Any flight or portion thereof to be provided with air traffic control service
b) Any IFR flight within advisory airspace
c) Any flight within or into designated areas or along designated routes when required by the ATS authority for flight information, alerting, and search & rescue services
d) Any flight within or into designated areas or along designated routes requiring co-ordination with military units or ATS units in adjacent States (to avoid interception)
e) Any flight across International borders

⏱ FLIGHT PLAN SUBMISSION TIMES

Type	Submission Time
Standard intended flights	At least 3 hours (180 minutes) before EOBT, but not earlier than 120 hours (5 days) before EOBT
RPA (Remotely Piloted Aircraft)	At least 24 hours before estimated time of departure
Delay of 15 minutes or more (previously filed FP)	PIC or representative must notify ATC of revised ETD; amend FP or file new FP and cancel old one

📘 COMPLETION OF A FLIGHT PLAN

Whatever the purpose for which it is submitted, a flight plan shall contain information as applicable on relevant items up to and including "Alternate aerodrome(s)" regarding the whole route or the portion thereof for which the flight plan is submitted.

✅ RNP/RVSM/RCP/RSP REQUIREMENT

An operator shall, prior to departure, ensure that where the flight is intended to operate on a route or in an area where an RNP/RVSM/RCP/RSP type specification is prescribed, the aircraft has an appropriate approval and that all conditions applying to that approval will be satisfied.

📝 Changes to a Flight Plan

Flight Type	When to Report Changes
IFR flight OR VFR flight operated as controlled flight	As soon as practicable to the appropriate ATS unit
Other VFR flights	Significant changes shall be reported as soon as practicable
Fuel endurance or number of persons on board (if incorrect at departure)	Constitutes a significant change — must be reported

📝 Closing a Flight Plan

✅ ARRIVAL REPORT

Unless otherwise prescribed by the appropriate ATS authority, a report of arrival shall be made in person, by radiotelephony or via data link at the earliest possible moment after landing, to the appropriate ATS unit at the arrival aerodrome, by any flight for which a flight plan has been submitted covering the entire flight or the remaining portion of a flight to the destination aerodrome.

📡 15. Air Traffic Control Service

✅ ATC CLEARANCE

An ATC clearance shall be obtained prior to operating a controlled flight, or a portion of a flight as a controlled flight. Such clearance shall be requested through the submission of a flight plan to an ATC unit.

✅ ADHERENCE TO FLIGHT PLAN

An aircraft shall adhere to the current flight plan or the applicable portion unless a request for a change has been made and clearance obtained from the appropriate ATC unit.

⚠️ Deviations from the Current Flight Plan

Deviation Type	Required Action
Deviation from Track	Take action forthwith to adjust heading to regain track as soon as practicable
Deviation from ATC assigned Mach number/indicated airspeed	Inform appropriate ATS unit immediately
Deviation from Mach number / true airspeed — varies by ± Mach 0.02 or more, or ± 19 km/h (10 kt) TAS or more	Inform appropriate ATS unit
Change in Time Estimate — exceeds 2 minutes from notified time	Notify ATS unit as soon as possible (unless ADS-C is activated and serviceable in airspace where ADS-C services are provided)

📘 ADS-C AUTOMATIC REPORTING

When ADS-C services are provided and ADS-C is activated, the ATSU shall be informed automatically via data link whenever changes occur beyond the threshold values stipulated by the ADS event contract.

📝 Change Requests — Required Information

Type of Change	Information to Include in Request
Change of cruising level	Aircraft identification; requested new cruising level and Mach/TAS at this level; revised time estimates at subsequent reporting points or FIR boundaries
Change of Mach/TAS	Aircraft identification; requested Mach/TAS
Change of route (destination unchanged)	Aircraft identification; flight rules; description of new route including related FP data beginning with position from which change is to commence; revised time estimates; any other pertinent info
Change of route (destination changed)	Aircraft identification; flight rules; description of revised route to revised destination including related FP data; alternate aerodrome(s); any other pertinent info

⛅ Weather Deterioration Below VMC (VFR Controlled Flight)

✅ OPTIONS WHEN VMC CANNOT BE MAINTAINED (VFR Controlled Flight)

a) Request an amended clearance to continue in VMC to destination or alternate, or to leave the airspace requiring ATC clearance
b) If no clearance can be obtained, continue in VMC and notify ATC of the action being taken either to leave the airspace or to land at the nearest suitable aerodrome
c) If operated within a control zone, request authorisation to operate as a Special VFR flight
d) Request clearance to operate in accordance with IFR

📵 17. Radio Communication Failure (RCF) Procedures

📵 RCF DECISION FLOWCHART

✅ IF IN VMC (Radio Failure) — Actions

a) Continue to fly in VMC, land at the nearest suitable aerodrome, and report arrival by the most expeditious means to the appropriate ATC unit
b) If considered advisable, complete an IFR flight in accordance with the provisions below

⛔ IF IN IMC (or IFR PIC considers inadvisable to complete VMC provisions) — Detailed Procedure

Step	Airspace	Action Required
a)	Non-radar airspace	Unless otherwise prescribed (regional air navigation agreement) — maintain last assigned speed and level, or minimum flight altitude if higher, for 20 minutes following the aircraft's failure to report over a compulsory reporting point, then adjust level and speed per filed flight plan
b)	Radar-provided airspace	Maintain last assigned speed and level, or minimum flight altitude if higher, for 7 minutes following: (1) time last assigned level/min altitude reached; OR (2) time transponder set to Code 7600; OR (3) aircraft's failure to report over compulsory reporting point — whichever is later. Then adjust per filed flight plan.
c)	Radar vectored / RNAV offset	Rejoin current flight plan route no later than the next significant point, taking into account applicable minimum flight altitude
d)	En-route	Proceed per current FP route to the appropriate designated navigation aid or fix serving the destination aerodrome, and hold over this aid until commencement of descent
e)	Approach	Commence descent from the nav aid/fix at expected approach time last received and acknowledged, or if no EAT received, at the estimated time of arrival from the current FP
f)	Approach	Complete a normal instrument approach procedure as specified for the designated nav aid or fix
g)	Landing	Land, if possible, within 30 minutes after the ETA specified in step (e) or the last acknowledged EAT, whichever is later

🔑 KEY RCF TIME VALUES TO MEMORISE

Non-Radar: maintain for 20 minutes

Radar: maintain for 7 minutes

Land within 30 min of ETA/EAT

Squawk: 7600

Note: The provision of ATC service to other flights operating in the airspace concerned will be based on the premise that an aircraft experiencing communication failure will comply with these rules.

🌤️ 18. VMC Visibility and Distance from Cloud Minima (Table 3-1)

Altitude Band	Airspace Class	Flight Visibility	Distance from Cloud
Altitude Band	Airspace Class	Flight Visibility	Horizontal	Vertical
At and above 3,050 m (10,000 ft) AMSL	A*** / BCDEFG	8 km	1,500 m	300 m (1,000 ft)
Below 3,050 m (10,000 ft) AMSL and above 900 m (3,000 ft) AMSL, or above 300 m (1,000 ft) above terrain, whichever is higher	A*** / BCDEFG	5 km	1,500 m	300 m (1,000 ft)
At and below 900 m (3,000 ft) AMSL, or 300 m (1,000 ft) above terrain, whichever is higher	A***BCDE	5 km	1,500 m	300 m (1,000 ft)
	F, G	5 km**	Clear of cloud and with the surface in sight

* Note on Transition Altitude: When the height of the transition altitude is lower than 3,050 m (10,000 ft) AMSL, FL 100 should be used in lieu of 10,000 ft.

** Special Provisions for Airspace F & G (India — at/below 900m/3000ft AMSL or 300m/1000ft AGL):

Flight visibilities reduced to not less than 3,000 m may be permitted for flights operating: (1) at speeds giving adequate opportunity to observe other traffic/obstacles, or (2) in areas where encounter probability with other traffic is normally low
Helicopters may be permitted to operate up to 1,500 m flight visibility at a speed giving adequate opportunity to observe other traffic/obstacles
When so prescribed by the appropriate ATS authority: helicopters may operate up to 1,000 m flight visibility

*** Class A Airspace: VMC minima in Class A airspace are included for guidance to pilots and do not imply acceptance of VFR flights in Class A airspace.

🔑 MEMORY AID — VMC MINIMA

Above 10,000 ft AMSL: 8 km vis | 1500m H | 1000ft V

3000–10,000 ft AMSL: 5 km vis | 1500m H | 1000ft V

Below 3000 ft (Class A-E): 5 km | 1500m H | 1000ft V

Below 3000 ft (Class F/G): 5 km | Clear of cloud | Surface in sight

☀️ 19. Visual Flight Rules (VFR)

📘 VFR FLYING CONDITIONS

Except when operating as a Special VFR flight, VFR flights shall be conducted so that the aircraft is flown in conditions of visibility and distance from clouds equal to or greater than those specified in the VMC Table.

⛔ VFR — CONTROL ZONE ENTRY/DEPARTURE RESTRICTIONS

Except when a clearance is obtained from an ATC unit, VFR flights shall NOT take off or land at an aerodrome within a control zone, or enter the aerodrome traffic zone or traffic pattern:

a) When the ceiling is less than 450 m (1,500 ft), or
b) When the ground visibility is less than 5 km

✅ VFR OPERATING HOURS

VFR flights shall be operated during the period from 20 minutes before sunrise to 20 minutes after sunset, except when exempted by ATC for local flights and training flights of flying club aircraft cleared by ATC.

⛔ VFR ALTITUDE / AIRSPACE RESTRICTIONS (Unless ATS Authority Authorizes)

VFR flights shall NOT operate above FL 150
VFR flights shall NOT operate at transonic and supersonic speeds
VFR flights shall NOT operate more than 100 NM seaward from the shoreline within controlled airspace

Authorization for VFR flights to operate above FL 290 shall NOT be granted in areas where a vertical separation minimum of 300 m (1,000 ft) is applied above FL 290.

✅ WHEN VFR FLIGHTS COMPLY WITH ATC PROVISIONS

a) When operated within Class B, C, and D airspace
b) When forming part of aerodrome traffic at controlled aerodromes
c) When operated as Special VFR flights

✅ CHANGE FROM VFR TO IFR

An aircraft operating VFR that wishes to change to IFR compliance shall:

a) If a FP was submitted, communicate the necessary changes to be effected to its current flight plan, or
b) When required, submit a FP to the appropriate ATS unit and obtain a clearance prior to proceeding IFR when in controlled airspace.

🛩️ 21. Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)

✅ IFR AIRCRAFT EQUIPMENT

Aircraft shall be equipped with suitable instruments and with navigation equipment appropriate to the route to be flown.

⛔ IFR MINIMUM LEVELS (Where No State Minimum Has Been Established)

Terrain Type	Minimum IFR Level	Obstacle Clearance Reference
High terrain or mountainous areas	600 m (2,000 ft) above highest obstacle	Within 8 km of estimated position
All other areas	300 m (1,000 ft) above highest obstacle	Within 8 km of estimated position

Mountains: 600m (2000ft) above highest obstacle within 8km

Elsewhere: 300m (1000ft) above highest obstacle within 8km

✈ IFR — Rules Applicable to Controlled Airspace

✅ CRUISING LEVELS IN CONTROLLED AIRSPACE

An IFR flight in cruising flight in controlled airspace shall be flown at a cruising level, or if authorised for cruise climb, between two levels or above a level, selected from:

a) The Tables of cruising levels, or
b) A modified table for flight above FL 410, except that the correlation of levels to track shall not apply whenever otherwise indicated in ATC clearances or specified by ATS authority in AIPs.

✈ IFR — Rules Applicable Outside Controlled Airspace

✅ CRUISING LEVELS OUTSIDE CONTROLLED AIRSPACE

An IFR flight operating in level cruising outside controlled airspace shall be flown at a cruising level appropriate to its track per:

a) Tables of cruising levels, except when otherwise specified by appropriate ATS authority for flight at or below 900 m (3,000 ft) AMSL
b) Modified table for flight above FL 410

✅ COMMUNICATIONS — IFR OUTSIDE CONTROLLED AIRSPACE

An IFR flight operating outside controlled airspace but within or into areas or along routes designated by ATS authority shall maintain air-ground voice communication watch and establish two-way communication with the air traffic services unit providing flight information service.

🔄 Change from IFR to VFR

📘 IFR → VFR CANCELLATION

An aircraft electing to change from IFR to VFR compliance shall, if a FP was submitted, notify the appropriate ATS unit specifically that the IFR flight is cancelled and communicate thereto the changes to be made to the current FP.

When an aircraft operating IFR encounters VMC, it shall NOT cancel its IFR flight unless it is anticipated, and intended, that the flight will be continued for a reasonable period of time in uninterrupted VMC.

🌙 Flight by Night (Definition)

📘 NIGHT DEFINITION

A flight performed between half an hour after sunset and half an hour before sunrise.

💡 Contrast with VFR Day Operations

VFR flights are operated 20 minutes before sunrise to 20 minutes after sunset.
Night definition for IFR/general purposes: 30 min after sunset to 30 min before sunrise.

📝 IFR — Position Reports Outside Controlled Airspace

✅ IFR POSITION REPORTS (Advisory Airspace Users)

Aircraft electing to use the air traffic advisory service whilst operating IFR within specified advisory airspace are expected to comply with these provisions, except that flight plan changes are not subjected to clearances and that two-way communication will be maintained with the unit providing the air traffic advisory service.

🆘 22. Distress, Urgency & Interception Signals

⛔ DISTRESS SIGNALS — MAYDAY (Grave and Imminent Danger)

The following signals, used either together or separately, mean that grave and imminent danger threatens, and immediate assistance is requested:

a) Radiotelegraphy: SOS (· · · — — — · · ·) in Morse Code
b) Radiotelephony: spoken word MAYDAY
c) Distress message via data link transmitting intent of word MAYDAY
d) Rockets or shells throwing red lights, fired one at a time at short intervals
e) A parachute flare showing a red light

⚡ URGENCY SIGNALS — PAN PAN (Difficulties compelling landing, no immediate assistance)

Type 1 — Aircraft has difficulties compelling it to land without requiring immediate assistance:

a) Repeated switching on and off of the landing lights
b) Repeated switching on and off of the navigation lights in such manner as to be distinct from flashing nav lights

Type 2 — Aircraft has a very urgent message concerning safety of a ship, aircraft, vehicle or person:

a) Radiotelegraphy: XXX (— · · — — · · — — · · —)
b) Radiotelephony: spoken words PAN, PAN
c) Urgency message via data link transmitting intent of words PAN, PAN

🔑 DISTRESS vs URGENCY — KEY DISTINCTION

Signal	Words Used	Morse	Meaning
DISTRESS	MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY	SOS · · · — — — · · ·	Grave & imminent danger; immediate assistance needed
URGENCY	PAN PAN PAN PAN	XXX — · · — — · · — — · · —	Very urgent message / difficulties compelling land

🛡️ Interception — Actions of the Intercepted Aircraft

✅ WHEN YOUR AIRCRAFT IS INTERCEPTED — IMMEDIATE ACTIONS

a) Attempt to establish two-way communication via any available means, including emergency radio frequency 121.5 MHz (and if practicable, also on 243 MHz)
b) If equipped with SSR transponder: select Mode A, Code 7700 (unless otherwise instructed by ATS unit)
c) If equipped with ADS-B or ADS-C: select the appropriate emergency functionality, if available

Conflict of Instructions: If any instructions received by radio from any sources conflict with those given by the intercepting aircraft by visual signals, the intercepted aircraft shall request immediate clarification while continuing to comply with the visual instructions given by the intercepting aircraft. If instructions by radio conflict with those from intercepting aircraft by radio, request clarification while complying with radio instructions from the intercepting aircraft.

📘 INTERCEPTION COMMUNICATION PHRASEOLOGY

PHRASES FOR USE BY INTERCEPTING AIRCRAFT			PHRASES FOR USE BY INTERCEPTED AIRCRAFT
Phrase	Pronunciation	Meaning	Phrase	Pronunciation	Meaning
CALL SIGN	KOL SA-IN	What is your call sign	CALL SIGN	KOL SA-IN	My call sign is ...
FOLLOW	FOL-LO	Follow me	WILCO	VILL-KO	Understood, will comply
DESCEND	DEE-SEND	Descend for landing	CAN NOT	KANN NOTT	Unable to comply
YOU LAND	YOU LAAND	Land at this aerodrome	REPEAT	REE-PEET	Repeat your instruction
PROCEED	PRO-SEED	You may proceed	AM LOST	AM LOSST	Position unknown
			MAYDAY	MAYDAY	I am in distress
			HIJACK	HI-JACK	I have been hijacked
			LAND (place)	LAAND	I request to land at (place)
			DESCEND	DEE-SEND	I require descent

📡 Visual Signals — Interception Sequences

Series	Intercepting Aircraft Signal	Meaning	Intercepted Aircraft Response	Meaning
1	DAY/NIGHT — Rocking aircraft + flashing nav lights at irregular intervals from position slightly above and ahead of, to the left of intercepted aircraft (or right if helicopter); slow level turn to left on desired heading	You have been intercepted. Follow me.	DAY/NIGHT — Rocking aircraft + flashing nav lights at irregular intervals, and following	Understood, will comply
2	DAY/NIGHT — Abrupt breakaway climb of 90° or more without crossing the line of flight of intercepted aircraft	You may proceed.	DAY/NIGHT — Rocking the aircraft	Understood, will comply
3	DAY/NIGHT — Lowering landing gear + showing steady landing lights + overflying runway in use	Land at this aerodrome.	DAY/NIGHT — Lowering landing gear + steady landing lights + following and landing if safe	Understood, will comply
4	(Response to Series 4 from intercepted aircraft) Raises landing gear + Series 1 signals = follow to alternate aerodrome; or Series 2 signals = release intercepted aircraft		DAY/NIGHT — Raising landing gear + flashing landing lights while passing over runway at 300–600m, continuing to circle runway	Aerodrome you have designated is inadequate
5	Use Series 2 signals	Understood	DAY/NIGHT — Regular switching on/off all available lights but distinct from flashing lights	Cannot comply
6	Use Series 2 signals	Understood	DAY/NIGHT — Irregular flashing of all available lights	In distress

⛔ VISUAL SIGNAL — WARNING: RESTRICTED/PROHIBITED/DANGER AREA

By day and by night: a series of projectiles discharged from the ground at intervals of 10 seconds, each showing on bursting red and green lights or stars, indicate to an unauthorised aircraft that it is flying in or about to enter a restricted, prohibited, or danger area, and that it is to take such remedial action as may be necessary.

🛡️ 23. ADIZ (Air Defense Identification Zone) & Air Defense Clearance (ADC)

📘 ADIZ ZONES IN INDIA

Air Defense Identification Zones (ADIZ) have been established for air defense clearance:

ADIZ North, South, East, West, Central, and Sub-ADIZ South East

✅ WHEN IS ADC REQUIRED?

Except local flights within 5 NM radius centred at ARP and vertical limits of 1,000 ft AGL of an aerodrome: aircraft operating to, through, or within the ADIZ shall obtain Air Defense Clearance (ADC) before take-off, through the ATC concerned.

ADC Rule	Details
ADC validity — Scheduled/RPL/FPL	(-) 15 minutes to (+) 45 minutes of EOBT
ADC validity — Non-scheduled domestic	(-) 15 minutes to (+) 3 hours of EOBT
ADC route validity	Valid for the entire route, irrespective of intermediate halts for flights originating in one ADIZ/FIR and transiting through other ADIZ/FIR
All flights entering Indian airspace	Shall obtain ADC before entering ADIZ from respective FIC, ten minutes prior to entering Indian airspace
Communication difficulty at departure	Aircraft with radio may take off with instructions to obtain ADC immediately after airborne from FIC concerned
Flying Club aircraft (no ATC at aerodrome)	May obtain ADC from nearest IAF ATC Unit; IAF ATC will advise FIC concerned
Same-day return flight	ADC can be issued for return flight also; however, a fresh ADC is required if delay exceeds 30 minutes from estimated departure time

Exemption radius: 5 NM / 1000 ft AGL

Scheduled ADC validity: -15 to +45 min EOBT

Non-scheduled ADC validity: -15 min to +3 hr EOBT

Entry timing: 10 min before entering Indian airspace

Light Signal	Aircraft IN FLIGHT	Aircraft ON GROUND
🟢 Steady GREEN	Cleared to LAND	Cleared for TAKEOFF
🔴 Steady RED	Give way to other aircraft and continue circling	STOP
🟢 Series of GREEN flashes	Return for landing* (clearances will be given in due course)	Cleared to TAXI
🔴 Series of RED flashes	Aerodrome unsafe — DO NOT LAND	Taxi clear of landing area in use
⬜ Series of WHITE flashes	Land at this aerodrome and proceed to apron* (clearances will be given in due course)	Return to starting point on the aerodrome
🔴 Red PYROTECHNIC	Notwithstanding any previous instructions — DO NOT LAND for the time being	—

Aircraft State	Daylight	Hours of Darkness
In flight	Rock the wings	Flash on/off landing lights twice OR switch nav lights on/off twice
On the ground	Move ailerons or rudder	Flash on/off landing lights twice OR switch nav lights on/off twice

🏁 25. Visual Ground Signals

🔴 PROHIBITION OF LANDING

Signal: Horizontal RED square panel with YELLOW diagonals (X pattern)

Meaning: Landings are prohibited and the prohibition is liable to be prolonged

🟡 SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS WHILE LANDING

Signal: Horizontal RED square panel with ONE yellow diagonal

Meaning: Owing to bad state of the manoeuvring area or for any other reason, special precautions must be observed in approaching to land or in landing

⬜ USE RUNWAYS AND TAXIWAYS ONLY

Signal: Horizontal WHITE DUMBBELL

Meaning: Aircraft are required to land, take off, and taxi on runways and taxiways only

⬜ RUNWAYS ONLY (Other manoeuvres not confined)

Signal: White dumbbell with a BLACK BAR perpendicular to shaft across each circular portion

Meaning: Aircraft required to land and take off on runways only, but other manoeuvres need not be confined to runways and taxiways

🔴 CLOSED RUNWAYS OR TAXIWAYS

Signal: Crosses of a single contrasting colour — WHITE or YELLOW — displayed horizontally on runways and taxiways

Meaning: Area unfit for movement of aircraft

🟠 DIRECTION FOR LANDING/TAKEOFF

Signal: Horizontal white or orange landing "T"

Meaning: Indicates direction to be used by aircraft for landing and take-off (parallel to shaft, towards cross arm). At night: illuminated or outlined in white lights.

🟡 DIRECTION FOR TAKEOFF (Digits)

Signal: A set of two digits displayed vertically at/near aerodrome control tower — Yellow background

Meaning: Indicates direction for takeoff, expressed in units of 10 degrees to the nearest 10 degrees of the magnetic compass

Example: "12" = 120° magnetic

➡️ RIGHT HAND TRAFFIC

Signal: Right-hand arrow of conspicuous colour displayed in signal area or horizontally at end of runway/strip in use

Meaning: Turns are to be made to the RIGHT before landing and after take-off

🟡 ATS REPORTING OFFICE

Signal: Letter "C" displayed vertically in BLACK against a YELLOW background

Meaning: Indicates the location of the air traffic services reporting office

✚ GLIDER FLIGHTS IN OPERATION

Signal: Double white cross displayed horizontally in the signal area

Meaning: Aerodrome is being used by gliders and glider flights are being performed

🦺 26. Marshalling Signals & Emergency Hand Signals

📘 SIGNALMAN RULES (DGCA)

No person shall guide an aircraft unless trained, qualified and approved by DGCA to carry out the functions of a signalman
The signalman shall wear a distinctive fluorescent identification vest
Daylight: Fluorescent-coloured wands, table-tennis bats, or gloves shall be used
Night / Low Visibility: Illuminated wands shall be used
Engines are numbered from right to left from the signalman facing the aircraft (No. 1 = port outer engine)
Signals marked (*) are designed for hovering helicopters

Wingwalker / Guide

Right hand up with wand pointing up; left hand wand pointing down toward body

Identify Gate

Raise fully extended arms straight above head with wands pointing up

Proceed to Next Signalman / Tower

Point both arms upward; move and extend arms outward to side of body; point with wands to direction of next signalman or taxi area

Straight Ahead

Bend extended arms at elbows and move wands up and down from chest height to head

Turn Left (Pilot's POV)

Right arm/wand extended at 90°; make "come ahead" signal with left hand. Rate of signal = rate of turn

Turn Right (Pilot's POV)

Left arm/wand extended at 90°; make "come ahead" signal with right hand. Rate of signal = rate of turn

Normal Stop

Fully extend arms and wands at 90° to sides; slowly move above head until wands cross

Emergency Stop

Abruptly extend arms and wands to top of head, crossing wands

Set Brakes

Raise hand just above shoulder height with open palm, ensuring eye contact with flight crew, close hand into a fist. Do not move until "thumbs up" acknowledgment received.

Release Brakes

Raise hand just above shoulder height with closed fist; open palm. Do not move until "thumbs up" acknowledgment received.

Chocks Inserted

Arms and wands fully extended above head; move wands inward in a jabbing motion until wands touch. Ensure acknowledgment received from flight crew.

Chocks Removed

Arms and wands fully extended above head; move wands outward in a jabbing motion. Do not remove chocks until authorised by flight crew.

Start Engine(s)

Raise right arm to head level with wand pointing up; start circular motion with hand. At same time with left arm raised above head, point to engine to be started.

Cut Engines

Extend arm with wand forward of body at shoulder level; move hand and wand to top of left shoulder and draw wand to top of right shoulder in a slicing motion across throat.

Slow Down

Move extended arms downwards in a "patting" gesture; move wands up and down from waist to knees.

Slow Down Engine(s) on Indicated Side

Arms down, wands toward ground; wave either right or left wand up and down indicating which engine(s) should be slowed down.

Move Back

Arms in front of body at waist height; rotate arms in a forward motion. To stop rearward movement, use Signals 6a or 6b.

14a

Turn While Backing (Tail to Starboard)

Point left arm with wand down; bring right arm from overhead vertical position to horizontal forward position, repeating right-arm movement.

14b

Turn While Backing (Tail to Port)

Point right arm with wand down; bring left arm from overhead vertical position to horizontal forward position, repeating left-arm movement.

Affirmative / All Clear

Raise right arm to head level with wand pointing up OR display hand with "thumbs up"; left arm remains at side by knee. Also used as a technical/servicing communication signal.

*16

Hover (Helicopter)

Fully extend arms and wands at a 90° angle to sides.

*17

Move Upwards (Helicopter)

Fully extend arms and wands at 90° to sides with palms turned up; move hands upwards. Speed of movement indicates rate of ascent.

*18

Move Downwards (Helicopter)

Fully extend arms and wands at 90° to sides with palms turned down; move hands downwards. Speed of movement indicates rate of descent.

*19a

Move Left (Pilot's POV) (Helicopter)

Extend arm horizontally at 90° to right side; move other arm in same direction in a sweeping motion.

*19b

Move Right (Pilot's POV) (Helicopter)

Extend arm horizontally at 90° to left side; move other arm in same direction in a sweeping motion.

*20

Land (Helicopter)

Cross arms with wands downwards and in front of body.

Hold Position / Stand-by

Fully extend arms and wands downwards at a 45° angle to sides. Hold position until aircraft is clear for next manoeuvre.

Dispatch Aircraft

Perform a standard salute with right hand and/or wand. Maintain eye contact with flight crew until aircraft has begun to taxi.

Do Not Touch Controls (Technical)

Extend right arm fully above head and close fist or hold wand in horizontal position; left arm remains at side by knee.

Connect Ground Power (Technical)

Hold arms fully extended above head; open left hand horizontally and move finger tips of right hand into and touch the open palm of left hand (forming a "T"). At night, illuminated wands can also be used.

Disconnect Power (Technical)

Hold arms fully extended above head with finger tips of right hand touching open horizontal palm of left (forming "T"), then move right hand away from left. Do not disconnect power until authorised by flight crew.

Negative (Technical)

Hold right arm straight out at 90° from shoulder; point wand to ground or display hand with "thumbs down"; left hand remains at side by knee.

Establish Interphone (Technical)

Extend both arms at 90° from body and move hands to cup both ears.

Open/Close Stairs (Technical)

Right arm at side; left arm raised above head at 45°; move right arm in a sweeping motion towards top of left shoulder. Intended mainly for aircraft with integral stairs at the front.

🚒 Standard Emergency Hand Signals (ARFF to Cockpit/Cabin)

📘 ARFF EMERGENCY SIGNALS

These are the minimum required signals for emergency communication between the ARFF incident commander/firefighters and the cockpit and/or cabin crews of the incident aircraft. Given from the left front side of the aircraft for the cockpit crew.

Recommend Evacuation

Arm extended from body and held horizontal with hand upraised at eye level. Execute beckoning arm motion angled backward. Non-beckoning arm held against body. Night: same with wands.

Recommended Stop (Stop Evacuation)

Arms in front of head — crossed at wrists. Night: same with wands.

Emergency Contained ("All Clear")

Arms extended outward and down at 45°; arms moved inward below waistline simultaneously until wrists crossed, then extended outward (umpire's "safe" signal). Night: same with wands.

Fire

Move right hand wand in a "fanning" motion from shoulder to knee, while at same time pointing with left-hand wand to area of fire.

🧑‍✈️ From Pilot to Signalman Signals

Brakes

Brakes Engaged: Raise arm and hand, with fingers extended, horizontally in front of face, then clench fist.

Brakes Released: Raise arm, with fist clenched, horizontally in front of face, then extend fingers.

Chocks

Insert Chocks: Arms extended, palms outwards, move hands inwards to cross in front of face.

Remove Chocks: Hands crossed in front of face, palms outwards, move arms outwards.

🔢 27. Table of Cruising Levels (RVSM & NON-RVSM)

📘 CVSM vs RVSM

CVSM (Conventional VSM) / Non-RVSM: General vertical separation minimum applied everywhere. Separation = 2,000 ft (same direction below FL290)
RVSM (Reduced VSM): 300 m (1,000 ft) applied between FL 290 and FL 410 inclusive. RVSM is applied in Indian airspace per the table.
In RVSM airspace (FL290–FL410): VFR flights are NOT allowed.
Above RVSM airspace (>FL410): Separation doubles again.

📐 SEMI-CIRCULAR RULE — CRUISING LEVELS (MNEMONIC DIAGRAM)

🔑 SEMI-CIRCULAR RULE — MEMORY TABLE

Airspace	Flight Level	Magnetic Track 000°–179°	Magnetic Track 180°–359°
CVSM (Non-RVSM)	Below FL290	IFR: Odd (FL010, 030, 050...FL280) VFR: Odd + 500 ft (FL045, 065, 085...FL275)	IFR: Even (FL020, 040, 060...FL290-) VFR: Even + 500 ft (FL035, 055, 075...FL285)
RVSM (India)	FL290 to FL410	IFR: Odd up to FL400, then FL430, 470... VFR: N/A	IFR: Even up to FL410, then FL450, 490... VFR: N/A
CVSM Above RVSM	Above FL410	IFR: Odd(290, 330, 390, 430 etc.) VFR: Alternate Even	IFR: Odd(290, 330, 370, 410 etc.) VFR: Alternate Even

RVSM separation note: Minimum separation in airspaces below FL290 between IFR flights in the same direction is 2,000 ft and in reciprocal direction 1,000 ft. Minimum separation between IFR and VFR both ways is 500 ft. Above FL290 in RVSM, separation is 2,000 ft same direction and 1,000 ft reciprocal direction. Above RVSM airspace it doubles.

🔦 28. Navigation Lights & Right of Way at Night

💡 AEROPLANE NAVIGATION LIGHT GEOMETRY

Navigation Light	Coverage Angle	Position	Night Right-of-Way Rule
🔴 Red	110° projected L + R of horizontal plane	Port (left) wing	If the light is NOT moving relative to you = risk of collision
🟢 Green	110° projected L + R of horizontal plane	Starboard (right) wing
⬜ White	140° rearward (70° each side)	Tail

🌙 Right of Way at Night — What You See

What You See (Not Moving)	Other Aircraft Position	Action Required
RED + GREEN together	Coming directly HEAD-ON at you	⚠️ BOTH alter heading RIGHT
RED + WHITE	Moving from right to left (you see their port side)	Give way (you are on their right — converging rule)
GREEN + WHITE	Moving from left to right (you see their starboard side)	YOU HAVE RIGHT OF WAY
WHITE only	Flying away from you	Monitor; you may be overtaking
GREEN to GREEN	Passing port to port (safe)	Safe passage
RED to RED	Passing starboard to starboard (safe)	Safe passage
GREEN to RED	Crossing paths — unsafe	⚠️ Collision risk — take action

💡 STUDENT TIP — RED/GREEN MEMORY AID

"If you see RED — you could be DEAD" — The red light is on the other aircraft's port (left) side. This means the other aircraft is crossing from your right to your left. Under converging rules, the one with the other on its RIGHT gives way — so that's YOU. Give way!

Navigation lights CANNOT be seen from the rear — white only means the aircraft is ahead of or flying away from you.

📝 30. Practice Questions & Answer Key

💡 EXAM TIPS FROM CAPT. PANKAJ PAHIL

High-frequency exam topics: VMC minima table, cruising levels, RCF procedures, light gun signals, interception signals, right-of-way rules
Numbers to memorise: acrobatics min height (600m/2000ft), RVSM range (FL290–FL410), RCF non-radar time (20 min), RCF radar time (7 min), special VFR min visibility (1500m fixed, 1000m helicopters)
Watch for trick questions on VFR ceiling/visibility in control zones: ceiling <450m (1500ft) OR visibility <5km

Q1. Where State has not established minimum IFR altitudes, the minimum height of an aircraft above the highest obstacle over high terrain or mountainous areas shall be:

✓ A) At least 2,000 ft within 8 km of the estimated position
B) At least 1,000 ft within 8 km of the estimated position
C) At least 2,000 ft within 5 km of the estimated position

Q2. Aircraft wishing to conduct IFR flight within advisory airspace, but not electing to use the air traffic advisory service:

A) Need to file a flight plan
B) Shall nevertheless submit a flight plan but changes thereto are not necessary to be notified
✓ C) Shall nevertheless submit a FP and notify changes to the ATS unit providing that service

Q3. The white dumb-bell with black perpendicular bar indicates that:

A) Taxiing need not be confined to the taxiways
B) Glider flying is performed outside the landing area
✓ C) Landing, take-off and taxiing is allowed on runway and/or taxiway only

Q4. Your aircraft is intercepted by a military aircraft. The signals given by this aircraft conflict with ATC instructions. You should:

A) Select code 7500 on your transponder
B) Follow ATC instructions
✓ C) Follow the instructions of the intercepting aircraft

Q5. An aircraft subjected to unlawful interference forced to deviate from the cleared track/level without radio contact shall try to:

A) Fly the emergency triangle
✓ B) Continue at an altitude that differs from the semicircular rule with 1,000 ft when above FL 290 and 500 ft when lower than FL 290
C) Commence emergency descent

Q6. An aircraft manoeuvring in an airport's circuit receives a series of red flashes from the control tower. This signifies that the aircraft must:

✓ A) Not land for the moment regardless of previous instructions
B) Return to land and clearance to land will be communicated in due course
C) Not land because the airport is not available for landing

Q7. Whilst flying in an aerodrome's traffic circuit, an aircraft receives a series of green flashes from the tower. The aircraft:

A) Is cleared to land
B) Must land immediately and clear the landing area
✓ C) Must come back to land and the landing clearance will be sent in due time

Q8. Except when a clearance is obtained from an ATC unit, a VFR flight CANNOT enter or leave a control zone when ceiling is less than:

A) 2,000 ft or visibility less than 5 km
B) 1,000 ft or visibility less than 5 km
✓ C) 1,500 ft (450m) or visibility less than 5 km

Q9. Which of the following flights has the greatest priority to land?

✓ A) Emergency aircraft
B) Military aircraft
C) VIP (Head of State) aircraft

Q10. An aircraft flying above the sea between 4,500 ft MSL and 9,000 ft MSL outside controlled airspace under VFR must remain at least:

A) 1,500m horizontally, 1,000 ft vertically from clouds; 8 km visibility
B) Clear of clouds and in sight of the surface; 8 km visibility
✓ C) 1,500m horizontally, 1,000 ft vertically from clouds; 5 km visibility

Q11. The VMC minima for airspace classified as "B" above 10,000 ft MSL are:

A) 2,000m horizontally, 1,000ft vertically from clouds; 8km visibility
✓ B) 1,500m horizontally, 1,000ft vertically from clouds; 8km visibility
C) 1 NM horizontally and 1,000 ft vertically from clouds; 8 km visibility

Q12. The VMC minima for airspace classified as "G" above 10,000 ft MSL are:

✓ A) 1,500m horizontally, 1,000ft vertically from clouds; 8km visibility
B) 1 NM horizontally and 1,000 ft vertically from clouds; 8 km visibility
C) 1 NM horizontally and 1,000 ft vertically from clouds; 5 km visibility

Q15. Which of the following actions shall be taken in case of a controlled flight deviates from the track?

✓ A) Adjust the heading of the aircraft to regain track as soon as possible
B) If VMC, maintain this condition, waiting for ATC instructions
C) Notify ATC of the new track immediately and comply with instructions

Q18. An aircraft intercepted by another aircraft shall immediately attempt to establish radio communication with the intercepting aircraft on:

A) 121.5 MHz – 282.8 MHz
B) 121.5 MHz – 125.5 MHz
✓ C) 121.5 MHz – 243 MHz

Q26. An aircraft is considered to overtake another if it approaches the other from the rear on a line forming an angle of less than:

A) 50 degrees with the plane of symmetry of the latter
✓ B) 70 degrees with the plane of symmetry of the latter
C) 60 degrees with the plane of symmetry of the latter

Q65. While flying at night, another aircraft reports that you are on his 100 degrees relative bearing. In that case you should see his:

A) Red navigation light
✓ B) Green navigation light
C) Green and white navigation lights

Q106. ADC validity for non-scheduled domestic flights is:

A) (-) 15 minutes to (+) 45 minutes of EOBT in RPL/FPL
B) (+) 60 minutes of EOBT in RPL/FPL
✓ C) (-) 15 minutes to (+) 3 hours of EOBT

📋 ANSWER KEY (All 106 Questions from the PDF)

1-A

2-C

3-A

4-C

5-B

6-C

7-C

8-C

9-A

10-C

11-B

12-A

13-A

14-A

15-A

16-B

17-A

18-C

19-B

20-B

21-C

22-B

23-B

24-B

25-C

26-B

27-A

28-A

29-A

30-C

31-C

32-B

33-C

34-C

35-A

36-A

37-B

38-B

39-B

40-A

41-B

42-B

43-B

44-B

45-B

46-C

47-B

48-C

49-C

50-B

51-A

52-C

53-B

54-A

55-B

56-A

57-B

58-B

59-C

60-A

61-A

62-B

63-A

64-A

65-B

66-C

67-C

68-B

69-B

70-A

71-C

72-A

73-B

74-A

75-B

76-C

77-B

78-B

79-B

80-A

81-C

82-C

83-B

84-A

85-B

86-A

87-A

88-B

89-B

90-C

91-A

92-A

93-C

94-B

95-A

96-B

97-C

98-C

99-B

100-A

101-A

102-B

103-C

104-B

105-A

106-C

Acrobatics min height: 600m / 2000ft AGL

Acrobatics near aerodrome: <2NM prohibited (unless >1800m/6000ft)

Formation lateral: ≤1km / 0.5NM

Formation vertical: ≤30m / 100ft

VFR ceiling for CTR entry: ≥450m / 1500ft

VFR visibility for CTR entry: ≥5km

VFR max altitude: FL150

VFR operating hours: -20min SR to +20min SS

Night definition: +30min SS to -30min SR

VMC visibility above 10,000ft: 8km

VMC visibility below 10,000ft: 5km

VMC horizontal cloud distance: 1,500m

VMC vertical cloud distance: 300m / 1,000ft

Special VFR fixed-wing: ≥1500m vis

Special VFR helicopter: ≥1000m vis

IFR mountains: 600m / 2000ft within 8km

IFR elsewhere: 300m / 1000ft within 8km

FP submission: 180 min before EOBT

FP earliest: 120hr before EOBT

RPA FP: 24hr before ETD

FP delay report: ≥15min delay → notify ATC

UTC clock accuracy: ±30 sec

Data link time: ±1 sec UTC

Mach deviation notify: ±Mach 0.02 or ±10kt TAS

ETA deviation notify: >2 min

RCF non-radar hold: 20 minutes

RCF radar hold: 7 minutes

RCF land within: 30 min of ETA/EAT

Squawk RCF: 7600

Squawk hijack: 7500

Squawk emergency: 7700

Emergency frequency: 121.5 MHz / 243 MHz

RVSM range: FL290–FL410

RVSM separation: 1000ft same dir, 2000ft recip

ADC scheduled: -15 to +45 min EOBT

ADC non-scheduled: -15 min to +3hr EOBT

ADIZ exemption: 5NM / 1000ft AGL

Overtaking angle: <70° plane of symmetry

Nav lights: PORT RED 110° | STBD GREEN 110° | TAIL WHITE 140°

VFR congested area: ≥300m / 1000ft above highest obstacle

VFR elsewhere: ≥150m / 500ft AGL

📖 Rules of the Air

📋 Table of Contents