The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s civil aviation regulator, has imposed a penalty of ₹1.1 crore on Air India for safety violations on certain flights. The penalty comes following a safety report from an employee of the airline, alleging violations on specific long-range terrain critical routes.
According to the regulator, it conducted a comprehensive investigation into the alleged violations based on a voluntary safety report. The prima facie investigation showed non-compliance, prompting the DGCA to issue a show cause notice to the accountable manager of Air India. The response to the notice was examined with respect to statutory provisions and performance limits stipulated by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
The investigation revealed that the operations of the leased aircraft were not in line with regulatory norms and performance limits suggested by the aircraft manufacturer. As a result, the DGCA has initiated enforcement action and imposed a penalty of ₹1.1 crore on Air India.
This is not the first time Air India has faced penalties from the aviation regulator. Last week, DGCA fined the airline ₹30 lakh for lapses in rostering pilots for flights operating in low visibility conditions. The analysis of flight-related data for December 2023 revealed that Air India did not roster CAT II/III and low visibility take-off qualified pilots for some flights.
In November, the regulator imposed a fine of ₹10 lakh on Air India for failing to comply with rules related to facilities for passengers. Inspections carried out at Delhi, Kochi, and Bengaluru airports found that Air India was not meeting the provisions of the relevant Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR).
The safety violations leading to penalties highlight the significance of adherence to aviation regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers and crew. Airlines are expected to follow the prescribed norms, and any deviation can result in regulatory action.
Air India, backed by the Tata Group, has been undergoing various changes and challenges since the Tata Group acquired the airline. While the Tata Group has been working towards restructuring and improving the financial health of Air India, regulatory compliance remains a critical aspect for any airline operation.
Safety is paramount in the aviation industry, and regulators play a crucial role in enforcing standards to maintain the highest levels of safety. Penalties are imposed not only as punitive measures but also to send a strong message to airlines about the importance of adhering to safety regulations and protocols.
The DGCA’s enforcement actions are part of its commitment to ensuring that all airlines operating in the Indian airspace comply with safety standards. The penalties are also reflective of the regulator’s dedication to maintaining the integrity of the civil aviation sector in India.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve and face new challenges, regulatory bodies must adapt and strengthen oversight mechanisms. The DGCA’s actions serve as a reminder to all airlines operating in India that safety and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable aspects of their operations.
Air India, being a prominent player in the Indian aviation landscape, is expected to take corrective measures to address the identified safety violations. The airline’s management will likely review and enhance its operational procedures to prevent similar issues in the future.
Passenger safety and confidence in air travel are paramount, and regulatory interventions ensure that airlines uphold the highest standards in their operations. While penalties may have financial implications for the airline, the ultimate goal is to create a safer and more secure environment for air travel in India.
The DGCA’s imposition of a ₹1.1 crore penalty on Air India underscores the regulator’s commitment to maintaining safety standards in civil aviation. Airlines are urged to prioritize safety and adhere to regulations to ensure the well-being of passengers and the overall integrity of the aviation industry.