The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken stern action against Air India Limited, imposing a hefty fine of Rs 80 lakhs for violating pilot rest period regulations. This enforcement action underscores the regulator’s commitment to upholding safety standards in the civil aviation sector.
Following an audit conducted in January to assess compliance with Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL) regulations, DGCA auditors identified several breaches by Air India. One significant violation involved the operation of flights with crew members above 60 years of age flying together, contravening Aircraft Rules, 1937. Furthermore, the audit revealed instances where the airline failed to provide adequate weekly rest to pilots before and after ultra-long-range flights, as well as during layovers. Additionally, discrepancies were noted in training records and overlapping duties, highlighting systemic issues within the airline’s operational framework. In response to these findings, DGCA issued a show cause notice to Air India on 1st March, prompting the carrier to submit explanations for the observed violations. However, the regulator deemed the airline’s response as ‘non-satisfactory’, leading to the imposition of the hefty fine.
The enforcement action by DGCA underscores the importance of adherence to safety protocols and regulatory requirements in the aviation industry. By holding airlines accountable for lapses in compliance, the regulator aims to maintain the highest standards of safety for passengers and crew members alike. Prior to this enforcement action, concerns were raised by Air India pilots regarding the airline’s practice of compelling pilots to operate flights beyond their stipulated duty hours. Instances of intimidation by duty managers, threatening pilots with career repercussions if they refused to comply, were reported to DGCA by pilot associations. DGCA’s imposition of a substantial fine on Air India serves as a reminder to all airlines to prioritise safety and regulatory compliance. It reinforces the importance of fostering a culture of safety within the aviation industry to ensure the well-being of all stakeholders involved.
