DGCA cracks down on Air India over crew scheduling violations; 3 senior officials removed, show-cause notice issued
In a major regulatory crackdown, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has removed three senior officials of Air India from their posts over serious lapses in flight crew scheduling. The aviation watchdog had observed crew members being assigned duty without observing licensing requirements, rest period requirements, and operational norms.
According to the DGCA, the airline violated key safety protocols by engaging in non-compliant crew pairings, breaching licensing and recency rules, and operating with a flawed scheduling system.
In view of the report's findings, the DGCA had directed the immediate removal of the three officials involved and also that departmental proceedings be initiated within 10 days. The officials have also been placed on non-operational positions, pending further action.
A stern warning from the regulator has kept the tone clear: any further violations may invite the severest punishments of a suspension of license, imposition of financial penalties, or even cancellation of their operating permits.
In a separate but related development, the DGCA has also issued a show-cause notice to Air India for allegedly violating flight duty time limitations on two international flights operated from Bengaluru to London (AI133) on May 16 and 17, 2025.
The investigation revealed that both flights exceeded the permissible 10-hour duty period as mandated under Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) Section 7, Series J, Part III, Issue III, dated April 24, 2019.
The DGCA said that Air India's top safety officer did not follow rules about crew duty hours and other safety guidelines. The airline now has seven days to reply and explain why action should not be taken against it.
If Air India doesn't respond in time, the DGCA may take action without hearing their side. This could include suspending licenses, fines, or other penalties.
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In response to the regulator’s action, an Air India spokesperson said, “We acknowledge the regulator’s directive and have implemented the order. In the interim, the company's Chief Operations Officer will provide direct oversight to the Integrated Operations Control Centre (IOCC). Air India is committed to ensuring that there is total adherence to safety protocols and standard practices.”
The airline assured that it is taking corrective measures to align fully with DGCA norms and enhance internal compliance monitoring.
