- The Supreme Court of India is examining a plea highlighting systemic blind spots in the country's aviation boom that leave disabled travellers stranded or facing severe accessibility hurdles. - The petition underscores gaps in enforcement and regulatory oversight by authorities like the DGCA regarding accessibility standards for passengers with disabilities. - Despite massive expansion in aviation infrastructure and passenger numbers, inclusivity and barrier-free design remain critical challenges for vulnerable groups. - The case highlights the broader socio-legal debate around the implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act in commercial services and public transport. - **Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act:** Landmark legislation aligned with the UNCRPD that guarantees rights to equality, non-discrimination, and accessibility across 21 specified disabilities. - **Aircraft Rules:** Statutory rules governing civil aviation in India under the Aircraft Act, dictating standards for airworthiness, safety, aircraft operations, and regulatory compliance. - **Supreme Court of India:** India’s apex judicial body possessing constitutional powers of judicial review, writ jurisdiction, and Public Interest Litigation enforcement to protect fundamental rights. - **Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA):** India’s primary regulatory body for civil aviation under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, responsible for safety oversight, licensing, and enforcing accessibility regulations. **Introduction** The Supreme Court of India has agreed to examine a plea concerning systemic blind spots within the rapidly growing Indian aviation sector that leave disabled travellers stranded and facing accessibility barriers. The petition points out shortcomings in regulatory compliance, infrastructure, and services for persons with disabilities, bringing attention to the need for inclusive growth alongside infrastructure expansion. **Core Issue and Detailed Points** - The Supreme Court of India is examining a plea highlighting systemic blind spots in the country's aviation boom that leave disabled travellers stranded or facing severe accessibility hurdles. - The petition underscores gaps in enforcement and regulatory oversight by authorities like the DGCA regarding accessibility standards for passengers with disabilities. - Despite massive expansion in aviation infrastructure and passenger numbers, inclusivity and barrier-free design remain critical challenges for vulnerable groups. - The case highlights the broader socio-legal debate around the implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act in commercial services and public transport. **Key Statutory Bodies, Acts & Concepts** - **Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act:** Landmark legislation aligned with the UNCRPD that guarantees rights to equality, non-discrimination, and accessibility across 21 specified disabilities. - **Aircraft Rules:** Statutory rules governing civil aviation in India under the Aircraft Act, dictating standards for airworthiness, safety, aircraft operations, and regulatory compliance. - **Supreme Court of India:** India’s apex judicial body possessing constitutional powers of judicial review, writ jurisdiction, and Public Interest Litigation enforcement to protect fundamental rights. - **Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA):** India’s primary regulatory body for civil aviation under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, responsible for safety oversight, licensing, and enforcing accessibility regulations.