What Actions Has the DGCA Taken Against Airlines for Safety Violations in 2025?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, India's aviation regulator has taken action against 19 safety violations by airlines this year. This report reveals details of increased enforcement, various safety lapses, and staffing issues in the aviation sector. Stay informed about the developments affecting aviation safety in India.
Key Takeaways
- 19 safety violations have been recorded by the DGCA in 2025.
- Increased enforcement actions observed over the past five years.
- Key violations include breath analyzer rule non-compliance and unauthorized cockpit access.
- The government is funding improvements in safety oversight.
- Staffing issues persist in major aviation bodies.
New Delhi, Dec 8 (NationPress) India’s aviation authority has initiated measures regarding 19 safety violations by airlines up to this point in 2025, as reported to Parliament on Monday.
In a written statement to the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol provided comprehensive data concerning airline non-compliance, safety budgets, and staffing deficiencies within essential aviation institutions in response to a query from the Lok Sabha.
Mohol noted that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has intensified its enforcement actions over the last five years.
The number of actions against scheduled airlines has steadily increased from merely two in 2021 to seven in 2022, ten in 2023, and twenty-two in 2024, culminating in nineteen actions thus far this year.
These measures encompass financial penalties, suspensions of approvals or authorizations, and official warnings.
The violations recorded by the authority span a broad spectrum of safety lapses, including non-compliance with breath analyzer regulations for crew members, failures in flight data monitoring, unauthorized access to cockpits, and inadequate quality assurance audits.
Other infractions involved the improper use of flight simulators lacking DGCA approval, deploying crew without requisite training, and breaches of Flight Duty Time Limitations.
Maintenance-related issues were also identified, such as failure to adhere to proper procedures, deficiencies discovered during spot checks, and instances where aircraft were operated with expired emergency equipment.
The Minister remarked that the Government has been allocating resources to bolster the DGCA’s safety and regulatory oversight, with annual budget details provided in an annex to Parliament.
He also disclosed the current vacancy status across four primary aviation bodies: the DGCA, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and the cadre of Air Traffic Controllers.
The sanctioned positions and vacancies for each organization were shared to highlight workforce gaps that impact safety and regulatory functions.
Point of View
It is crucial to emphasize that the DGCA's actions reflect a committed approach to enhancing aviation safety standards in India. With increasing incidents of non-compliance, the regulatory body is taking necessary steps to address these issues, ensuring both passenger safety and the integrity of the aviation industry.
NationPress
08/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the types of violations addressed by the DGCA?
The DGCA has addressed various violations including non-compliance with breath analyzer rules, unauthorized cockpit access, and maintenance-related issues.
How has the number of actions taken by the DGCA changed over the years?
The actions taken by the DGCA have increased significantly from just two in 2021 to nineteen so far in 2025.
What measures are being taken to improve safety oversight?
The government is allocating funds to enhance the DGCA’s safety and regulatory oversight, with details shared in Parliament.
What staffing issues are impacting the aviation sector?
The DGCA and other aviation bodies are facing workforce gaps, which affect safety and regulatory functions.
What penalties can airlines face for safety violations?
Airlines may face financial penalties, suspensions of approvals, and official warnings for safety violations.
