Mandatory NOC for All Constructions Within 56 km of Imphal Airport
Summary
The District Commissioner of Imphal West, Mayanglambam Rajkumar Singh, has issued an urgent directive: anyone planning to construct a building or plant tall trees within a 56 km radius of Imphal International Airport must secure a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Airport Authority of India. This move, grounded in aviation safety laws—the Indian Aircraft Act, 2024; Aircraft (Demolition of Obstructions) Rules, 1994; and the Civil Aviation Ministry’s 2015 GSR 751(E)—targets structures in the critical “Red Zone” area, where height limits are strictly enforced. The AAI’s online NOCAS portal streamlines the clearance process. Non-compliance could result in penalties, demolition, or obstruction removal
What does this directive really mean?
So here’s the scoop: The DC of Imphal West, under the name of aviation safety, has basically hit pause on any tall building or big tree within a 56 km zone of Imphal Airport unless it has the green light—a No Objection Certificate (NOC). This isn’t just red tape: it’s a lifeline for both aircraft safety and urban builders juggling that next high-rise project.
1. Why a 56 km radius?
That’s not a random mile. Under the Indian Aircraft Act, 2024 and supporting rules, they’ve mapped zones around airports based on flight paths. The “Red Zone” is where height restrictions are tightest—imagine a giant invisible dome over the airport where anything poking too high is a hazard. This directive ensures no one builds a needle in pilots’ flight paths.
2. The legal framework
This isn’t a new game—these rules have been around for decades:
- Indian Aircraft Act, 2024 – the latest update to aviation laws.
- Aircraft (Demolition of Obstructions) Rules, 1994 – rules giving authorities the power to tear down or trim unsafe build-ups.
- MoCA’s GSR 751(E) from September 2015 – spells out how tall you can go near airports.
Bottom line? It’s solidly grounded in law, not just local whim.
3. What needs an NOC?
- Any building (home, shop, office).
- Structures like towers or water tanks.
- Even trees crossing certain heights.
If you’re within that 56 km boundary, you need official clearance. If not? You’re playing with fire—or aviation authorities.
4. How to get this NOC?
The AAI’s made it easy with the online NOCAS portal—you just apply, and it shows a map outlining how tall you’re allowed to go. It’s all at nocas2.aai.aero or the AAI site.
5. What if you don’t comply?
- Violations are subject to Aircraft Rules, 1994.
- Authorities can demolish or trim dangerous structures/trees.
- What’s more, pilots’ safety is paramount: anything causing disruption can lead to enforcement under both aviation and criminal laws.
6. Why it matters to you
- Developers: This changes land planning within Imphal West—no more surprise illegal builds.
- Homeowners: Think twice before planting that tall pine near your new plot.
- Community: Less risk of flight hazards, safer skies for everyone.
7. From laser bans to building bans
This isn’t the DC’s first safety rodeo. Previously, he banned laser lights within 10 km of the airport to prevent pilot distraction. This step now expands that safety net far beyond the runway.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What happens if I already built a house taller than permitted?
They may serve a notice. You’ll have to apply for post-construction NOC, possibly face fines, or even face demolition of the obstruction.
2. How do I know if my property is within 56 km of Imphal Airport?
Use GPS or drawing tools on the NOCAS portal’s interactive map. You can also request guidance from the DC’s office.
3. Are tree heights regulated too?
Yes—any tree that obstructs protected airspace needs clearance. Planting tall trees without NOC could lead to trimming without notice.
4. Is there a fee for the NOC?
Typically, yes—nominal application fee via the NOCAS portal. Check the AAI site for current rates.
5. How long does the NOC approval take?
It varies—usually a few weeks. Complex cases near runways may take longer, as they require aviation authority review.
