✈️ DGCA Warns Air India Over Crew Rostering Lapses, Orders Removal of 3 Officials
In a firm regulatory move, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a warning to Air India for recurring violations in crew rostering protocols, citing risks to flight safety and regulatory non-compliance.
The aviation watchdog has ordered the removal of three Air India officials involved in scheduling flight crews after multiple audits revealed repeated breaches of Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms.
📋 What Are the Lapses?
The DGCA found that Air India failed to:
Adhere to mandated rest periods for crew.
Maintain compliance with maximum duty hour limits.
Document and verify fatigue risk mitigation plans.
Correct issues despite previous advisories.
These issues came to light during safety audits conducted in early 2025.
🚨 DGCA’s Directive
Immediate removal of three crew rostering officials.
Mandatory internal audit submission within a stipulated deadline.
Warning that continued non-compliance could attract financial penalties or license review.
🧭 Why It Matters
Crew fatigue is a leading cause of aviation incidents. Non-compliance with FDTL rules can severely compromise passenger safety, particularly on long-haul or overnight flights.
The DGCA’s action underlines the zero-tolerance policy on safety violations and aims to tighten operational discipline.
🛫 Air India’s Statement
Air India acknowledged the warning and stated it is reviewing internal crew rostering procedures. The airline reaffirmed its commitment to regulatory compliance and passenger safety.
❓ FAQs: DGCA Action Against Air India
Q1. Why did the DGCA issue a warning to Air India?
Because of repeated violations in crew rostering rules, including breach of FDTL and inadequate rest periods for crew.
Q2. Who has been removed?
Three Air India officials directly responsible for crew scheduling duties.
Q3. Is this action linked to any recent incident?
While not linked to a specific incident, it follows audits that revealed systemic lapses.
Q4. What does FDTL stand for?
Flight Duty Time Limitation – regulations governing how long flight crew can work before mandatory rest.
Q5. Will this affect upcoming flights?
Operations may see minor internal adjustments, but no major flight disruptions are expected.
📣 Final Takeaway
The DGCA’s action signals a crackdown on safety breaches in India’s civil aviation sector. For Air India, it is a call to tighten operational oversight and prevent future lapses. For passengers, this reinforces the role of strict regulatory enforcement in ensuring safer skies.
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Reported by Benny on June 21, 2025.
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