In order to enhance operational efficiency and reduce workload for cockpit crew, Indian budget carrier IndiGo has launched 'Digital e-logbook' for pilots. The new system has been made effective today, making IndiGo the first carrier in the country to implement this approach.

Digitalization

IndiGo today announced that it has collaborated with India's aviation regulator, the DGCA, to launch 'Digital e-logbook' for its pilots. This will provide direct flight data transfer service to pilots from IndiGo systems to eGCA logbooks.

The automated process is expected to provide consistency of data and format, leading to safer and more efficient operations. This will also offer real-time availability of flying hours data for pilots and enable data accuracy and timely submission of issuance, renewals, and endorsement of licenses by removal of multilayer data validation.

IndiGo Airbus A320

Ashim Mitra, Senior Vice President: Flight Operations, IndiGo, commented,

“We are proud to partner with DGCA to become the country’s first airline to introduce Digital e-logbook, taking a leap towards digitalisation in Indian aviation. This initiative is the beginning of a new era to enhance operational efficiency and easing of complexity and workload for pilots. This step is in line with the Government’s vision of “e-Governance and Digital India” and our philosophy of providing a hassle-free experience to our pilots.

… I would also like to thank DGCA, team of eGCA, and TCS to turn this into a reality and to all the leadership pilots and e-logbook verifiers for their immense contribution.”

IndiGo ATR 72
Photo: Getty Images

IndiGo says that the process will allow pilots to devote more time towards their skill enhancement and improve their quality of life by freeing up time required for work manual log filling.

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Vistara will go paperless, too

IndiGo isn't the only Indian carrier going digital. Vistara will also adopt electronic logbook software and go completely paperless in its operations in some time. The airline has selected US-based Ultramain Systems for the job and is testing the product before implementing it officially.

The electronic logbook software will replace the traditional paper-based aircraft paper technical log, cabin log, journey log, damage log, and fueling log. According to the airline, the new system will provide a validated electronic Certificate of Release to Service (e-CRS) on flights operated by Vistara.

Vistara Airbus A321
Photo: Airbus

The carrier had earlier stated that the ELB application will be used by flight and cabin crew and engineers on iOS devices to provide integrated workflows with Vistara's maintenance and operational systems. The software will be used for various live processes like Aircraft Maintenance and Operational Support (AMOS), Aircraft Communication Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS), and Aviation Resource Management System (ARMS).

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There has been a steady shift towards sustainability in aviation, and many airlines are now replacing traditional operational methods with more efficient digital solutions. Earlier this year, Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) also selected Ultramain Systems to provide its electronic logbook software. British Airways has also been using Ultramain ELB software on its Boeing 787 fleet after receiving operational approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority in 2015.

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