DGCA Rolls Out Electronic Personnel Licences For Top-Level Pilots

India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) launched Electronic Personnel Licence (EPL) services for Airline Transport Pilot Licences on January 21, 2026. The move extends India’s digital pilot licensing system to the highest level of pilot certification, following the rollout of Commercial Pilot Licences in February 2025.

The digital licences include International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)-aligned security features that allow real-time verification, prevent tampering, and remove the need for physical documents. Pilots can access their credentials through the eGCA mobile application. Director General Faiz Ahmed Kidwai said the system strengthens India’s civil aviation regulatory framework and acknowledged cooperation from industry stakeholders and technology partners.

The launch aligns with India’s Digital India and Ease of Doing Business initiatives and comes as the country’s aviation market grows. It also follows ICAO’s Amendment 178 to Annex 1, which recommends electronic licences for improved security and efficiency. With Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) certification now digital, India extends secure pilot credentials across key flight crew categories.