Air India Faces DGCA Action Over Missed Emergency Slide Inspection After Deadly Crash

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated enforcement action against Air India following the discovery of a lapse in the airline's routine aircraft maintenance, specifically involving the overdue inspection of an emergency slide.

Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, confirmed the development in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha on Monday. The action comes in the wake of a DGCA audit of Air India's operations, which uncovered the maintenance oversight. As a result, the aircraft in question was immediately grounded until the necessary rectification was completed.

"DGCA has taken enforcement action against Air India and the personnel responsible, in accordance with the Enforcement Policy and Procedure Manual," Mohol said. However, he did not disclose specific details such as the exact timing of the audit or when the enforcement action began.

The matter was raised by DMK MP Tiruchi Siva, who questioned whether the government was aware that some Air India aircraft had operated with overdue emergency slide checks in the weeks leading up to the June 12 crash of flight AI 171. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft, which was en route to London Gatwick from Ahmedabad, crashed into a building shortly after takeoff, killing all 260 people on board.

Siva also questioned whether the DGCA itself would be held accountable for what he alleged was a regulatory failure, given the violation of mandatory safety norms.

In response, the Civil Aviation Minister highlighted the mechanisms in place to ensure airline compliance with safety and maintenance standards. "DGCA ensures compliance through routine surveillance, spot checks, and night surveillance of airlines and their personnel. When violations are found, enforcement measures are taken in line with the prescribed procedures," Mohol said.

These enforcement actions can range from warnings to suspension, cancellation, or the imposition of financial penalties against airlines and individuals. Mohol also emphasized that DGCA personnel are well-trained to carry out oversight and enforcement duties.

Air India has faced increasing scrutiny in recent months for various operational lapses, with the June crash intensifying pressure on both the airline and the DGCA to uphold safety protocols. The regulator's latest move indicates a tougher stance on compliance failures in the wake of the tragic incident.

(With inputs from PTI)