The transport ministry is considering relaxing around 100 aviation safety regulations to make it easier for low-cost carriers to enter the domestic market and enhance the industry's competitiveness.
Airlines hope the expected regulatory changes will bring down costs and improve convenience for passengers, but aviation workers are concerned that some of the planned deregulation might jeopardize flight safety.
The ministry has already decided on conditionally lifting the ban on refueling aircraft while passengers are boarding or deplaning, a rule put in place because of the danger of fires. Due to a pilot shortage, it also plans to let pilots and copilots age 60 and older command commercial flights.