Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 29: In a major regulatory setback for Air India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has uncovered 51 safety violations during its annual audit of the airline, raising serious questions about its adherence to aviation safety protocols.
The audit identified issues ranging from outdated training manuals and gaps in pilot training to unqualified flight simulators and untrained staff managing flight rosters. There were also discrepancies in approvals for low-visibility operations, further aggravating concerns.
Of the 51 lapses, seven have been labelled 'Level I' critical breaches, which Air India must resolve by July 30. The remaining 44 non-compliances have a deadline of August 23 for rectification.
The DGCA has directed Air India to submit proof of compliance and demonstrate that all safety standards are now being met.
This enforcement action follows a recent revelation that an Air India aircraft had been operating with an overdue inspection of its emergency evacuation slide, a crucial safety component. The aircraft was subsequently grounded by the regulator until necessary checks were completed.
On July 23, the DGCA had already issued three show-cause notices to Air India concerning various lapses, giving the airline 15 days to respond.
Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, confirmed the regulatory action and emphasized that the DGCA has ramped up surveillance across the sector, including spot checks and night inspections.
"DGCA has initiated enforcement action against Air India and the responsible personnel as per the Enforcement Policy and Procedure Manual," Mohol stated.
The minister also affirmed that DGCA officials are fully trained for oversight roles and noted a broader push to intensify safety audits across all aviation operations, including helicopter services during the Chardham Yatra.
As scrutiny tightens, Air India is now under pressure to demonstrate a swift and transparent corrective course—especially as safety remains non-negotiable in India’s rapidly expanding aviation sector.