The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched the Electronic Personnel Licence (EPL) services for Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL), marking a significant step forward in the digital transformation of India’s civil aviation regulatory ecosystem. The launch event was held at the DGCA Headquarters on 21 January 2026, underlining the regulator’s commitment to modern, efficient and technology-driven governance.
Major Milestone in DGCA’s Digital Transformation Journey
The EPL ATPL service was formally inaugurated by the DGCA leadership, positioning it as a landmark reform in the delivery of aviation regulatory services.
Addressing the gathering, the Director General of Civil Aviation (DG CA) described the EPL initiative as a critical step towards building a secure, modern and future-ready regulatory ecosystem. The DG (CA) appreciated the efforts of DGCA teams and technology partners and acknowledged the cooperation extended by the aviation industry and key stakeholders in adopting the new digital system.
Secure Digital Licence with ICAO-Aligned Features
The Electronic Personnel Licence (EPL) is designed as a secure digital credential incorporating ICAO-aligned security features, ensuring:
-
Authenticity of the licence
-
Protection against tampering and fraud
-
Real-time verification of credentials
-
Greater transparency and trust in licensing systems
The EPL is accessible through the eGCA mobile application, enabling pilots to conveniently carry and verify their licences digitally.
Building on the 2025 Rollout of Digital Licensing
The DGCA began the phased rollout of the EPL framework in February 2025, initially covering:
-
Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)
-
Flight Radio Telephone Operator’s (Restricted) Licence – FRTOL
With the inclusion of ATPL under the EPL system, DGCA has further expanded the scope of digital licensing, reinforcing its commitment to efficiency, transparency and improved service delivery across the aviation sector.
Boost to Efficiency and Regulatory Trust in Aviation
The introduction of EPL for ATPL is expected to significantly improve:
-
Speed of licence issuance and verification
-
Ease of access for pilots
-
Regulatory efficiency for authorities
-
Overall trust and integrity in aviation credentials
This move aligns with broader national goals of digital governance and paperless service delivery, while also strengthening India’s global standing in aviation regulation.
Conclusion
The launch of Electronic Personnel Licence services for Airline Transport Pilot Licence marks a transformative moment in India’s civil aviation ecosystem. By leveraging secure digital technology and ICAO-aligned standards, DGCA has taken a decisive step toward creating a more transparent, efficient and globally aligned regulatory framework. The initiative not only benefits pilots and aviation professionals but also strengthens institutional credibility and service delivery in the rapidly growing aviation sector.
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
Source: PIB
