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In recent developments, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed significant fines on two major Indian airlines, Air India and IndiGo, for safety violations and irregularities. The fines, amounting to ₹1.10 crore for Air India and ₹1.20 crore for IndiGo, highlight critical lapses in adherence to safety protocols.
The DGCA revealed that Air India faced fines for safety violations on certain long-range terrain critical routes. A former Air India pilot, who served as a B777 commander, brought attention to these concerns by filing a complaint with the civil aviation ministry and the DGCA on October 29 of the previous year. The comprehensive investigation conducted by the DGCA prima facie revealed non-compliance by the airline.
A Show Cause Notice was subsequently issued to the Accountable Manager of Air India Limited. The airline’s response to the notice was scrutinized concerning statutory provisions and performance limits stipulated by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), as mentioned in a statement by the DGCA.
About IndiGo’s Unusual Incident and Fine:
IndiGo faced its own set of challenges, as it received a hefty fine of ₹1.20 crore. This penalty was imposed after passengers from one of its flights were reported to have come out onto the tarmac and started eating food. Such behavior not only poses a safety risk but also raises questions about the airline’s management of passenger conduct.
Civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia strongly condemned the incident, emphasizing its unacceptability. Ensuring passenger safety and adherence to protocols is paramount in the aviation industry.
Apart from safety concerns, the aviation industry in India also encountered operational disruptions due to adverse weather conditions, particularly dense fog. Several flights were either delayed or canceled, causing chaos at airports. Minister Scindia acknowledged the challenges posed by unpredictable weather conditions, stating, “There are the vagaries of nature over which unfortunately we don’t have control.”
He further explained that weather-related disruptions impact base stations in any civil aviation ecosystem, leading to a ripple effect of delays and cancellations across the entire system. While acknowledging the influence of nature, Scindia stressed the need for proactive measures and preparedness to mitigate the impact on air travel.
The fines imposed on Air India and IndiGo underscore the importance of upholding safety standards in the aviation industry. As authorities continue to investigate and address the issues raised, it is crucial for airlines to prioritize safety protocols and passenger well-being. Additionally, addressing challenges posed by weather conditions requires a collaborative effort and strategic planning to minimize disruptions and ensure a seamless travel experience for passengers.