In a stern move underscoring the paramount importance of safety in aviation, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed a hefty fine of USD $ 86000 on Air India. The national carrier faced the penalty for breaching regulations concerning Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) and fatigue management systems (FMS) for its flight crew. This action follows a rigorous spot audit conducted by the DGCA in January, which uncovered a litany of infractions within Air India’s operational framework.
Among the glaring violations were instances where both pilots operating a flight exceeded the age limit of 60 years, casting doubts on the airline’s adherence to crucial safety protocols. Furthermore, deficiencies in providing adequate weekly rest, ensuring sufficient rest before and after ultra-long range flights, and facilitating proper rest during layovers were flagged by the regulatory authority. Such lapses blatantly contravene the established provisions outlined in the Civil Aviation Requirements related to FDTL.
The audit also unearthed disturbing practices such as pilots exceeding stipulated duty periods, inaccuracies in training records, and overlapping duties, painting a concerning picture of operational integrity within Air India. Despite being served a show-cause notice on March 1 to address these grave findings, Air India’s response failed to meet the regulatory standards, prompting the imposition of the hefty fine.
DGCA, in a resolute statement, emphasized its unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety in India’s civil aviation sector. This enforcement action, it affirmed, aligns squarely with this commitment to safeguarding the lives of passengers and crew alike. The regulator’s decisive stance underscores the non-negotiable nature of compliance with safety protocols, serving as a stern warning to all operators within the aviation industry.
Air India’s repeated brushes with regulatory penalties over the past one and a half years underscore systemic deficiencies that demand urgent rectification. As the lifeline of millions of passengers, the onus rests squarely on airlines to prioritize safety above all else. Failure to do so not only invites punitive measures but also undermines the trust and confidence of the traveling public.
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