28/01/2026
The "70-Hour" Logistical Absurdity:
When Bureaucracy Grounds Efficiency
In the fast-paced world of commercial and private aviation, efficiency is paramount. However, we often encounter regulations disconnected from operational reality that create unnecessary costs and complications.
I want to highlight a real-world issue affecting flight crew logistics daily: "The capricious 70-hour timeframe rule."
✈️ The Operational Reality:
Flight crews (pilots and flight attendants, both commercial and private jets) operate on tight schedules. They land, rest at their hotel (usually for 12 to 24 hours), and take off the next day. For their safety and comfort, the goal is to book reliable, private, "round-trip" transportation (Airport - Hotel - Airport).
🛑 The Bureaucratic Block:
Current regulations state that to secure a round-trip private transportation contract, the stay at the destination must be a minimum of 70 hours.
💸 The Consequence of the Absurdity:
Since 99% of crews do not meet this near 3-day stay requirement, the following happens:
1. Service Breakage: The trusted private transport company hired for arrival is legally prohibited from handling their departure under the same agreement.
2. Double Cost & Inefficiency: The crew or the company is forced to hire a completely different service for the return trip (usually a standard taxi), creating duplicate payments and administrative burdens.
3. Loss of Quality/Security: The chain of trust and security provided by a known executive transport provider is severed.
This rule is a clear example of outdated legislation failing to adapt to the speed of today's market. It is urgent to modernize these regulatory frameworks that, far from protecting, hinder operations and increase service costs.