DGCA: Airport Security Photo Records Must Be Kept 3 Years

New Delhi, May 11 (PTI) Airport operators are now required to maintain records of photographs taken at the security hold area as well as tarmac for three years, according to aviation watchdog DGCA.

In a circular sent to aerodrome operators, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said the records have to be produced for inspection when required.

Under Rule 13 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, airport operators are permitted to take photographs at the security hold area and tarmac of the airport concerned subject to certain conditions.

Among other requirements, the person taking the photographs should carry identification documents and entry permits issued as per the directions of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The person concerned should undergo all security checks as applicable to passengers when entering the airside.


Passengers are not allowed to click photos at the security hold area and tarmac.

Sources said that now airport operators have been asked by DGCA to keep the records of such photographs for three years for the purpose of inspection whenever required.

"The records of photography shall be maintained for a period of three years and shall be produced for inspection to the DGCA upon demand," the circular, dated April 28, said.

Currently, there are 163 operational airports in the country, as per information available on the civil aviation ministry website.