The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has levied a hefty fine of Rs 80 lakh on Air India for breaches of regulations concerning flight duty time limitations (FDTL) and fatigue management systems for flight crew. The penalty follows a spot audit conducted by DGCA in January, which included data collection and analysis of random reports across Air India’s fleet.
During the audit, evidence emerged indicating instances where flight crew members above the age of 60 operated flights together, a violation of regulations. Additionally, Air India was found lacking in providing adequate weekly rest, pre- and post-flight rest for ultra-long-range flights, and rest during layovers, all contravening Civil Aviation Requirements related to FDTL.
The DGCA also noted cases of exceeding duty periods, inaccurately marked training records, and overlapping duties. Despite issuing a show cause notice on March 1, Air India’s response was deemed unsatisfactory. Consequently, the substantial fine was imposed on the airline as a punitive measure for the identified violations.
Previously, the aviation authority imposed a fine of Rs 30 lakh on Air India following the death of an elderly passenger who collapsed during the immigration process on February 12.