In a significant regulatory crackdown, the Directorate Normal of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has eliminated three senior officers of Air India from their posts over critical lapses in flight crew scheduling. The aviation watchdog had noticed crew members being assigned responsibility with out observing licensing necessities, relaxation interval necessities, and operational norms.
In accordance with the DGCA, the airline violated key security protocols by participating in non-compliant crew pairings, breaching licensing and recency guidelines, and working with a flawed scheduling system.
In view of the report’s findings, the DGCA had directed the quick removing of the three officers concerned and likewise that departmental proceedings be initiated inside 10 days. The officers have additionally been positioned on non-operational positions, pending additional motion.
A stern warning from the regulator has stored the tone clear: any additional violations could invite the severest punishments of a suspension of license, imposition of economic penalties, and even cancellation of their working permits.
Present-cause discover over London flights
In a separate however associated improvement, the DGCA has additionally issued a show-cause discover to Air India for allegedly violating flight responsibility time limitations on two worldwide flights operated from Bengaluru to London (AI133) on Could 16 and 17, 2025.
The investigation revealed that each flights exceeded the permissible 10-hour responsibility interval as mandated underneath Civil Aviation Necessities (CAR) Part 7, Collection J, Half III, Subject III, dated April 24, 2019.
The DGCA stated that Air India’s high security officer didn’t comply with guidelines about crew responsibility hours and different security pointers. The airline now has seven days to answer and clarify why motion shouldn’t be taken in opposition to it.
If Air India does not reply in time, the DGCA could take motion with out listening to their facet. This might embody suspending licenses, fines, or different penalties.
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Air India responds to DGCA discover
In response to the regulator’s motion, an Air India spokesperson stated, “We acknowledge the regulator’s directive and have applied the order. Within the interim, the corporate’s Chief Operations Officer will present direct oversight to the Built-in Operations Management Centre (IOCC). Air India is dedicated to making sure that there’s whole adherence to security protocols and customary practices.”
The airline assured that it’s taking corrective measures to align totally with DGCA norms and improve inside compliance monitoring.
