, India's aviation regulator, has taken a stern stance by issuing a show-cause){kind=link}
In a recent development, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s aviation regulator, has taken a stern stance by issuing a show-cause notice to major carriers, Air India and SpiceJet. The notice pertains to the alleged rostering of pilots who are not adequately trained in CAT III (Category III) technology, a critical system that aids aircraft in landing during adverse weather conditions, particularly dense fog.
The move by DGCA follows a series of incidents where over 50 flights bound for Delhi airport were diverted due to low visibility on December 24-25 and December 27-28. The dense to very dense fog that has enveloped several cities in recent weeks has significantly impacted flight operations, leading to disruptions and inconveniences for passengers.
CAT III technology is an advanced landing system designed to assist pilots during challenging weather conditions, such as dense fog or low visibility. It enables aircraft to make precision landings with minimal human intervention, relying on highly sophisticated instruments to guide them safely to the runway.
The issuance of the show-cause notice underscores the gravity of the situation and raises questions about the adherence to safety protocols by the airlines in question. The regulator is seeking an explanation from Air India and SpiceJet regarding the deployment of pilots not trained in CAT III technology during a period when weather conditions demanded utmost precision in landing procedures.
About CAT III Training Lapses:
The consequences of the lapses in training and adherence to safety standards have been palpable, with a significant number of flights being diverted from their intended destinations. The incidents have not only inconvenienced passengers but also raised concerns about the preparedness of airlines to handle adverse weather conditions.
Aviation safety is paramount, and any compromise in training standards or the deployment of inadequately trained personnel can have serious repercussions. The DGCA’s swift action in issuing the show-cause notice emphasizes the need for a thorough investigation into the matter and the implementation of corrective measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
As the aviation industry grapples with the challenges posed by unpredictable weather patterns, the recent events highlight the critical importance of ensuring that pilots are well-trained and equipped to handle adverse conditions. The DGCA’s intervention serves as a reminder to all stakeholders that the highest standards of safety must be maintained, prioritizing the well-being of passengers and the integrity of air travel.