DGCA flags 51 safety lapses in Air India audit; 7 classified as ‘critical’

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has identified 51 safety lapses in Air India’s operations during its annual audit, raising concerns about the airline’s compliance with mandatory aviation safety norms.

Of these, seven have been categorised as critical Level I breaches, which the airline must resolve by July 30, while the remaining 44 issues must be addressed by August 23, according to IANS report.

The audit pointed to outdated training manuals, unqualified simulators, fragmented training records, and inadequately trained staff managing flight rosters, among other concerns. The findings also highlighted irregularities in approvals for low-visibility operations and a lack of pilot training.

Also Read:DGCA grounds Air India aircraft over overdue emergency slide inspection, action initiated 

Outdated manuals, untrained staff among flagged issues

The DGCA has asked Air India to submit proof that all mandated safety protocols are being followed.

This development comes shortly after it was revealed that an Air India aircraft had been operating with an overdue inspection of its emergency slide, a critical safety component. The DGCA had grounded the aircraft immediately.

"DGCA immediately grounded the aircraft till the required rectification was carried out. DGCA has initiated enforcement action against Air India and the responsible personnel as per the Enforcement Policy and Procedure Manual of DGCA," said Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.

Also Read:Air India flight returns to Jaipur due to suspected technical issue 

Show-cause notices issued, audits intensified

On July 23, the DGCA issued three show-cause notices to the airline over multiple lapses, giving it 15 days to respond.

Mohol further stated that the regulator undertakes routine surveillance, night inspections and spot checks to ensure compliance with safety and maintenance norms. Enforcement action including fines, suspensions and warnings is taken in the event of violations.

He added that DGCA officials are well trained to carry out oversight and enforcement duties and noted that safety audits have been intensified across segments including helicopter operations during the Chardham Yatra.

(With inputs from IANS)