Has DGCA Ordered Air India to Remove 3 Senior Officials Immediately?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the DGCA has mandated Air India to dismiss three senior officials over critical lapses in crew scheduling. This decision follows serious violations that have raised safety concerns. As the airline grapples with scrutiny, the commitment to safety protocols remains paramount.
Key Takeaways
- DGCA mandates removal of three officials from Air India's rostering department.
- Serious violations include unauthorized crew pairings and licensing breaches.
- A temporary oversight will be provided by the COO of Air India.
- The airline emphasizes commitment to safety protocols and compliance.
- Internal disciplinary actions are required within 10 days.
New Delhi, June 21 (NationPress) Following stringent measures by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) against Air India for significant breaches in crew scheduling protocols, the airline has announced that it has complied with the directive to dismiss three senior officials from its rostering department without delay.
The DGCA mandated that these officials be relieved of all duties related to crew scheduling and rostering.
A formal communication from the aviation authority indicated that the identified individuals were accountable for numerous infractions, including unauthorized crew pairings, non-compliance with mandatory licensing conditions, and neglecting flight crew recency standards.
The DGCA characterized the situation as a “systemic failure” in scheduling practices and supervisory oversight.
An Air India representative stated that in the meantime, the company's Chief Operations Officer will oversee the Integrated Operations Control Centre (IOCC) directly.
“Air India remains dedicated to ensuring complete compliance with safety protocols and standard operating procedures,” remarked the airline.
The DGCA has indicated that these three officials have exhibited serious and repeated violations in crew rostering, requiring internal disciplinary actions to be initiated against them within 10 days.
Currently facing challenges following the tragic AI 171 Boeing 787 Dreamliner crash, which resulted in the deaths of at least 270 individuals, including 241 passengers and crew, Air India is under scrutiny as the Aviation Industry Employees’ Guild (AIEG) has called for a CBI investigation into the dismissal of two cabin crew members who reported a technical issue with the aircraft last year.
AIEG General Secretary, George Abraham, conveyed to IANS that there is a demand for a CBI inquiry into the termination of the two cabin crew members, emphasizing that this situation, especially following pressure from Air India to alter their statements after reporting a technical fault with the Dreamliner 787, is a matter of great concern.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of accountability in aviation safety. The DGCA's swift action against Air India underscores a commitment to stringent oversight in an industry where lapses can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Ensuring passenger safety must remain the top priority.
NationPress
21/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions did the DGCA take against Air India?
The DGCA ordered Air India to remove three senior officials from the rostering department due to serious breaches in crew scheduling.
What violations were the officials accused of?
The officials were found responsible for unauthorized crew pairings, non-compliance with licensing requirements, and failing to meet flight crew recency standards.
What is the current situation with Air India?
Air India is under scrutiny following the tragic AI 171 Dreamliner crash, which has raised concerns about its adherence to safety protocols.
Who is overseeing the operations in the interim?
The Chief Operations Officer of Air India will provide direct oversight to the Integrated Operations Control Centre during this period.
What further actions are expected from Air India?
The DGCA has mandated that internal disciplinary proceedings must be initiated against the three officials within 10 days.
