New Delhi: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a stern warning to Air India, threatening suspension or revocation of its operator license if the airline continues to violate pilot duty scheduling norms. The regulator’s warning follows the removal of three senior officials from key operational roles due to what it described as “repeated and serious violations” in crew rostering and compliance oversight.
In an enforcement order issued on Thursday, the DGCA directed the immediate removal of Choorah Singh, Divisional Vice President of the Integrated Operations Control Centre (IOCC); Pinky Mittal, Chief Manager-DOPS (Crew Scheduling); and Payal Arora, involved in planning crew schedules. All three have been stripped of responsibilities related to crew management and scheduling.
Regulator Flags “Systemic Failures”
The DGCA’s order cited “systemic failures” in Air India’s crew scheduling, compliance monitoring, and internal accountability mechanisms. It also noted a lack of disciplinary action against key personnel responsible for repeated operational lapses.
“Of particular concern is the absence of strict disciplinary measures against key officials directly responsible for these lapses,” the order stated. The watchdog has made it clear that any future violations of crew scheduling regulations, licensing conditions, or flight time limitations will invite strict enforcement action, including heavy penalties, license suspension, or revocation of operator permissions.
Context: Air India Under Increased Scrutiny
The regulatory action comes amid intensified scrutiny of Air India following the tragic June 12 crash of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner, en route to London from Ahmedabad. The crash claimed 241 lives, including all but one of the passengers and at least 30 people on the ground. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is currently probing the incident.
While the DGCA has not explicitly linked the enforcement order to the crash, internal documents reviewed by Hindustan Times suggest that the regulator is expanding its oversight of the airline’s operations.
Air India’s Response
In a statement issued shortly after the DGCA order, Air India confirmed compliance with the directive and said the three officials had been removed from their posts.
“The company’s Chief Operations Officer will now provide direct oversight to the IOCC,” the airline stated, adding that it remains committed to strict adherence to safety protocols and standard operating procedures.
As investigations continue, industry experts say the developments highlight the need for improved oversight and internal accountability within India’s aviation sector.