New Delhi, July 28 — The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated enforcement proceedings against Air India following the discovery of an overdue emergency slide inspection on one of its aircraft. The lapse was identified during a routine audit conducted by the aviation regulator, prompting immediate grounding of the affected aircraft until rectification was completed.
Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, confirmed the development in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, stating that the enforcement action was being carried out in accordance with the DGCA’s Enforcement Policy and Procedure Manual. The action includes measures against both the airline and the personnel deemed responsible for the oversight.
The issue came to light amid parliamentary scrutiny, with DMK MP Tiruchi Siva raising concerns over regulatory lapses in the weeks preceding the fatal crash of Air India flight AI 171 on June 12. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft, en route to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, resulting in the deaths of 260 people.
While specific dates of the audit and enforcement initiation were not disclosed, the incident has intensified focus on Air India’s compliance with mandatory safety protocols. The DGCA reiterated its commitment to maintaining aviation safety through regular surveillance, spot checks, and night inspections. Enforcement actions may include warnings, suspensions, cancellations, and financial penalties.
The regulator emphasized that its officials are adequately trained to perform oversight and enforcement functions, and that accountability measures are being pursued to address the violation.
