DGCA Issues Notices to Air India Over Crew Duty Violations
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued multiple show-cause notices to Air India for violations related to cabin crew duty hours and training protocols. These actions follow voluntary disclosures made by the airline regarding operational lapses. The notices highlight serious concerns about crew rest regulations on long-haul and domestic flights. Recent scrutiny of the airline has intensified due to safety compliance issues, particularly following a tragic incident involving a Boeing 787-8 aircraft. The airline has committed to addressing these notices promptly, emphasizing its dedication to passenger and crew safety.
| Jul 24, 2025, 16:29 IST
Regulatory Action Against Air India
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued four show-cause notices to Air India due to multiple violations related to cabin crew duty hours, training regulations, and operational procedures, as reported by sources on Thursday. These notices, released on July 23, followed voluntary disclosures made by the airline to the regulator on June 20 and 21. The concerns raised include breaches of crew rest rules and training protocols on several long-haul and domestic flights. An Air India spokesperson acknowledged receipt of the notices, stating that they pertain to some voluntary disclosures made over the past year. The airline is committed to responding within the stipulated timeframe and prioritizes the safety of its crew and passengers.
According to sources, three of the show-cause notices were based on disclosures made on June 20, relating to violations involving at least four ultra-long-haul flights. Two of these flights were operated on April 27, with one each on April 28 and May 2, where it was alleged that the cabin crew duty and rest regulations were not adhered to.
Additional violations concerning cabin crew training and operational procedures were reported for flights operated on July 26, October 9, 2024, and April 22, 2025.
A notice was also issued for violations of weekly rest and duty period standards for flights operated on June 24, 2024, and June 13, 2025.
Another notice, based on Air India's disclosures from June 21, highlighted three instances of crew training and procedural violations for flights operated between April 10-11, February 16 to May 19, and December 1, 2024.
In recent months, the airline has faced increased regulatory scrutiny due to lapses in safety and compliance.
On June 12, a significant incident involving an Air India Boeing 787-8 occurred when the aircraft collided with a building shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad en route to London Gatwick. This tragic accident resulted in the loss of 260 lives, including 19 individuals on the ground.