Were There Any Major Issues in the DGCA Audit of Airports?
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Synopsis
Discover the latest insights from the DGCA's recent audit at major airports, where no significant lapses were found. Learn about the implications for safety and regulatory compliance as the aviation sector continues to evolve.
Key Takeaways
- No significant lapses found in recent DGCA airport audits.
- All observations were classified as Level II.
- Regular surveillance and compliance checks are conducted by the DGCA.
- Strengthening of DGCA's workforce with new appointments.
- Ongoing commitment to aviation safety and regulatory compliance.
New Delhi, Dec 11 (NationPress) During the DGCA's latest surveillance audit at major airports, no significant violations were detected. All observations were classified as Level II and conveyed to the respective aerodrome operators, who successfully addressed them, as reported in Parliament on Wednesday.
In the context of DGCA audits, a Level II lapse reflects a procedural or administrative error that does not represent an immediate or critical safety risk, unlike a Level I violation.
Murlidhar Mohol, the Minister of State for Civil Aviation, provided a written response in the Lok Sabha, highlighting that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has a comprehensive mechanism in place at licensed airports to guarantee adherence to regulatory standards through routine surveillance audits. To uphold passenger safety and adhere to global aviation safety norms, a thorough safety oversight system is implemented to monitor compliance with the Rules and Civil Aviation Requirements. This oversight encompasses surveillance, spot inspections, and regulatory audits, with additional special audits conducted based on perceived risks.
The issuance of an airport license occurs only after satisfactory compliance with the stipulations outlined in the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) Section 4, he stated.
The responsibility for keeping airports in good condition during the license validity period lies with the aerodrome operators. The DGCA ensures this through regular surveillance inspections. Should any violations be detected, enforcement actions against the aerodrome operator are executed according to the Enforcement Policy and Procedure Manual, the minister elaborated.
Additionally, he noted that in the past four months, 22 officers have been appointed by the government to various positions within the DGCA to bolster its workforce. Furthermore, the Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) has concluded the necessary procedures for 42 officers.
A total of 62 technical officers, five flight operations inspectors, and eight stenographers have also been selected to join the DGCA, while an examination has been conducted to recruit an additional 121 operations officers, the minister mentioned.
Considering the current and future growth of the civil aviation sector, the DGCA's role as a safety regulator has been enhanced, leading to the creation of 441 new positions over the last three years during the restructuring process. Out of a total sanctioned strength of 1630 posts within the DGCA, 836 are currently occupied, he observed.
Regular safety oversight at licensed airports remains an ongoing task, conducted per the Annual Surveillance Plan available on the DGCA website. Findings from these inspections are communicated to the relevant airport operators for required corrective measures, and the DGCA monitors these actions at regular intervals, the minister concluded.
Point of View
I affirm that the absence of significant lapses in the DGCA audit underscores the effectiveness of our aviation oversight. This reflects a commitment to ensuring passenger safety and adherence to international standards. Ongoing monitoring and compliance will help build public trust in our civil aviation sector.
NationPress
12/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Level II lapse mean in DGCA audits?
A Level II lapse indicates a procedural or administrative oversight that does not pose an immediate or critical safety threat.
How does the DGCA ensure compliance at airports?
The DGCA employs a comprehensive mechanism that includes surveillance audits, spot checks, and regulatory audits to ensure compliance with safety standards.
What actions are taken if violations are found?
If violations are identified, enforcement actions are initiated against the aerodrome operators according to the Enforcement Policy and Procedure Manual.
