✈️ DGCA Orders Air India to Remove Rostering Officials, Recommends Disciplinary Action
In a decisive move, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered Air India to immediately remove three crew rostering officials over non-compliance with flight duty norms. The action follows a comprehensive audit into duty time limitations (DTL) and crew fatigue management, areas where lapses were identified.
🔎 What Prompted DGCA's Action?
DGCA’s scrutiny comes in the backdrop of concerns raised over:
Non-compliance with FDTL (Flight Duty Time Limitation) regulations
Excessive duty assignments for certain cockpit crew members
Inadequate rest periods, breaching mandatory safety protocols
These findings were made during a spot audit conducted in recent weeks, with Air India reportedly failing to address prior warnings.
👨✈️ Who Are the Officials Removed?
Though names remain undisclosed, the officials include:
Two senior rostering personnel involved in crew duty allocation
One operations manager responsible for final approvals of rosters
DGCA has recommended disciplinary action, potentially including suspensions and permanent removal from crew scheduling roles.
🛡️ Air India's Response
Air India, now part of the Tata Group, has acknowledged DGCA’s directive and stated:
“We are fully cooperating with the regulator and have already initiated an internal review. Crew safety and compliance are non-negotiable values.”
An internal committee has been constituted to evaluate rostering processes and plug systemic loopholes.
⚠️ Why This Matters
Crew fatigue has been a major contributor to global aviation incidents. India’s aviation watchdog is reinforcing compliance to ensure:
Safer skies for passengers
Reduced pilot fatigue
Better adherence to international civil aviation norms
This move also sends a strong signal to other airlines about the seriousness of crew duty regulations.
❓FAQ: DGCA Action on Air India
Q1: Why did DGCA act against Air India rostering officials?
Due to repeated violations of Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) and poor crew fatigue management, compromising passenger safety.
Q2: What actions were taken?
Three officials were removed from their roles, and DGCA called for disciplinary action to be initiated by Air India.
Q3: How does crew rostering affect flight safety?
Incorrect rostering can lead to fatigued pilots or cabin crew, increasing the risk of human error during flights.
Q4: Is this the first time DGCA has acted on such issues?
No. DGCA has acted against other carriers in the past, but this move signals tighter enforcement under revised safety protocols.
Q5: What’s next for Air India?
The airline will likely restructure its crew management system and increase automation or oversight to prevent recurrence.
🧠 Final Thoughts
This development highlights the DGCA’s sharper regulatory teeth and India’s growing emphasis on global aviation safety standards. As Air India expands globally, such crackdowns will ensure compliance-driven growth and bolster passenger confidence.
www.vizzve.com || www.vizzveservices.com
Follow us on social media: Facebook || Linkedin || Instagram
Reported by Benny on June 21, 2025.