National and International Aviation Law (ICAO, DGCA Act/Rules)
The international framework and Indian law
The Chicago Convention (1944) established ICAO and the principle that each State has complete sovereignty over its airspace. Its Annexes contain SARPs; Article 33 deals with recognition of certificates and licences, and Article 37 requires States to adopt international standards. ICAO also issues PANS (procedures for air navigation services), which are more operational than SARPs.
In India, the Aircraft Act, 1934 empowers the Central Government to make rules, and the Aircraft Rules, 1937 contain the detailed provisions on registration, airworthiness, licensing and offences. The DGCA administers these. The AAIB (Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau) investigates accidents, separately from DGCA's regulatory function - a distinction that appears in questions. The BCAS handles security.
Traps
A classic trap is confusing the regulator (DGCA) with the investigator (AAIB) and the security authority (BCAS). Another is thinking ICAO has enforcement power over individuals - it does not; enforcement is national. A third is mixing SARPs (Annexes) with PANS (procedures). Also remember that a licence issued by one State is recognised by another under Article 33 only if it meets or exceeds the minimum standards.
Worked example / rule of thumb
After an accident, the AAIB investigates and publishes a report; DGCA may act on safety recommendations. Investigation is not enforcement. Rule of thumb: ICAO sets standards; States legislate; DGCA regulates; AAIB investigates; BCAS secures.