DGCA Initiates Inspection at Air India’s Primary Aircraft Hub

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is set to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of Air India’s main facility in Gurugram. This assessment, planned prior to the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, aims to verify the airline’s aircraft documentation, airworthiness, and crew training records. While the timing of this inspection coincides with increased scrutiny of Air India’s operations, a senior DGCA official emphasized that it is a routine annual check and not a direct response to the recent accident.

Routine Inspection Amid Increased Oversight

The DGCA’s upcoming assessment of Air India is part of its standard yearly surveillance activities. This inspection will focus on critical areas such as aircraft documentation, airworthiness status, and crew-related records, including their training and duty hours. The decision to conduct this evaluation comes in the wake of heightened regulatory oversight following the Ahmedabad crash, which resulted in significant loss of life. DGCA officials have been tasked with providing detailed reports on all inspections and audits of Air India conducted since 2024, reflecting the regulator’s commitment to ensuring safety in aviation operations.

Reformed Audit Methodology for Enhanced Safety

In response to the recent accident, the DGCA has implemented a reformed audit methodology designed to enhance the thoroughness of its evaluations. This new approach marks a shift from the previous independent operations of regulatory and safety supervision, which involved separate departments conducting specialized inspections. The revised structure aims to integrate various monitoring activities, including scheduled and impromptu checks, to ensure compliance with safety standards across the aviation sector. The assessment process will emphasize three key areas: the effectiveness of safety management protocols, operational methodologies, and adherence to regulatory standards.

Specialized Teams for Detailed Assessments

The DGCA plans to deploy specialized teams of experts to carry out these detailed assessments. These teams will focus on air safety, aircraft airworthiness, crew training standards, and air navigation. Regular audits will be conducted for airlines, airports, maintenance facilities, and flight training institutions. While serious incidents or ongoing non-compliance may trigger immediate audits, routine assessments will be scheduled with prior notification to the organizations involved. This proactive approach aims to foster a culture of safety and compliance within the aviation industry.

Air India Adjusts Operations Following Regulatory Scrutiny

In light of the increased regulatory scrutiny, Air India has announced a temporary reduction of 118 weekly flights across 19 routes, along with the suspension of operations on three routes. This decision reflects the airline’s commitment to addressing safety concerns and complying with the DGCA’s enhanced oversight measures. As the DGCA continues its rigorous evaluations, the focus remains on ensuring the highest standards of safety and operational integrity within the aviation sector.

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