DGCA issues notice to IndiGo over training 1,700 pilots on non-qualified simulators

Aviation regulator DGCA on Tuesday issued a show-cause notice to IndiGo over alleged lapses in simulator training provided to nearly 1,700 pilots.

The move follows a review of records and responses submitted by the airline last month.

Non-qualified simulators used for critical airfield training

The regulator has directed IndiGo to respond within 14 days, warning of action if the airline fails to do so. 

According to sources, Category C or critical airfield training for airports such as Kozhikode, Leh, and Kathmandu was conducted using non-qualified simulators. These airports require additional operational expertise, with Kozhikode, for instance, having a table-top runway.

Nearly 1,700 pilots, including pilots-in-command and first officers, were impacted, with violations flagged during training, testing, and checking. Deficiencies were found in 20 simulators located across multiple cities — Delhi, Chennai, and Hyderabad (two each), Greater Noida and Gurugram (five each), and Bengaluru (four).

The DGCA has alleged that IndiGo’s Director (Training) failed to ensure compliance with civil aviation regulations. The notice also warns of possible penalties under the Aircraft Rules and the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) provisions.

'We confirm receipt of a show-cause notice': IndiGo responds

"We confirm receipt of a show-cause notice issued by the DGCA pertaining to simulator training of some of our pilots. We are in process of reviewing the same and will respond to the regulator within the stipulated timeline," an IndiGo spokesperson said in a statement.

The DGCA’s findings point to the use of simulators not certified for operations at certain critical airports. Category C airfields are classified as having challenging terrain, weather, or runway configurations, demanding specialised training for flight safety.