Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu launches Digital License for Pilots India becomes Second Country to Launch Electronic Personnel License (EPL) in Civil Aviation

India Launches Electronic Personnel License (EPL) for Pilots, Advancing Digital Innovation in Aviation

India has introduced the Electronic Personnel License (EPL) for pilots, marking a significant step in modernizing its civil aviation sector. Launched by Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu, this initiative enhances safety, security, and efficiency, making India the second country in the world to implement such a system following approval from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The EPL is a digital alternative to traditional physical pilot licenses and will be securely accessible via the eGCA Mobile Application. This initiative aligns with the Government of India's "Ease of Doing Business" and "Digital India" programs, streamlining the licensing process while ensuring transparency.

The move follows ICAO’s Amendment 178 to Annex 1 – Personnel Licensing, which encourages the adoption of electronic licenses for improved security and efficiency. While major aviation players globally are still working on similar implementations, India has taken a leading role in digital aviation solutions.

Speaking at the launch, the Union Minister emphasized the rapid growth of India's aviation sector, stating, “With the projected need for approximately 20,000 pilots in the near future, pilots remain the backbone of civil aviation. By leveraging technology through eGCA and EPL, we are improving their accessibility to credentials, enhancing global employability, and supporting security operations in real time.”

Previously, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued pilot licenses in smart card format, with over 62,000 such licenses distributed to date. In 2024 alone, approximately 20,000 new licenses required printing—an average of 1,667 per month. With the introduction of EPL, the reliance on printed cards will gradually decrease, making the licensing process more efficient while also reducing environmental impact by cutting down on plastic and paper usage.

Additionally, the Minister highlighted other digital advancements transforming Indian aviation, including the eGCA platform for streamlined licensing, the Digital Sky Platform for drones, and the Electronic Flight Folder (EFF) for airline operations.

The implementation of EPL marks a significant milestone in establishing a globally recognized, tamper-proof regulatory framework. It reinforces India’s leadership in aviation innovation while ensuring a secure and efficient licensing system for pilots.