DGCA Launches Investigation into Air India Operations Amid ARC Expiry

Investigation Initiated by DGCA

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has commenced an investigation into Air India. Reports have emerged indicating that the airline operated flights in eight revenue sectors despite the expiration of their Airworthiness Review Certificate (ARC). According to a press release from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Air India was granted the authority to issue ARCs for its aircraft following an annual review of maintenance records, physical condition, and compliance with airworthiness standards.

The ARC serves as a verification of an aircraft's primary Certificate of Airworthiness (C of A).

ARC Renewal Process and Compliance

Following the merger of Vistara into Air India in 2024, the DGCA was tasked with renewing the first ARC for all 70 former Vistara aircraft. So far, the regulator has renewed ARCs for 69 aircraft after satisfactory compliance from the airline. However, the 70th aircraft was grounded for an engine change after the operator submitted the ARC renewal application. During this period, the ARC expired, but the aircraft was cleared for service after the engine change was completed, as stated in a press release from the ministry on Tuesday.

On November 26, 2025, Air India informed the DGCA that the aircraft had flown in eight commercial sectors despite the ARC's expiration. Consequently, the aviation regulator promptly initiated an investigation and ordered the airline to cease operations of the aircraft.

Ongoing ARC Renewal and Internal Review

The ministry confirmed that the ARC renewal process for the aircraft is currently underway. The DGCA has also instructed Air India to remove the relevant personnel from the roster until the investigation results are available. In compliance with the regulator's directives, the airline has initiated an internal review to identify system deficiencies and implement corrective measures to prevent similar lapses in the future.