The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has suspended the director of operations and director of training at Akasa Air for six months because of lapses in pilots training. The decision was issued on December 27, 2024, and follows a regulatory audit that relates to violations of civil aviation requirements. According to DGCA, the two officials were unsuccessful in ensuring compliance with critical training protocols and have raised concerns about the airline’s adherence to safety standards.
Audit findings reveal violations
An audit was conducted by the DGCA on October 27, 2024, at Akasa Air’s Mumbai facility in which it was established that Required Navigation Performance (RNP) training for approaches was held on unqualified simulators. A violation of Para 7 of CAR Section 7, Series D, Part VI has been found. Moreover, the regulator also pointed out continuous lapses in the training practices, not able to meet necessary operational safety guidelines, and insufficient personal training.
Show cause notices have been issued against the two directors on October 15 and October 30. The reason behind the suspension has been cited as responses received as ‘’unsatisfactory’’ by the DGCA. Akasa Air has also been instructed by the regulator to suggest suitable replacements for the two positions in order to cater the compliance.
Meanwhile, Akasa Air has confirmed the receipt of the DGCA’s order and has asserted its commitment to adhere to the regulator’s directives. The airline highlighted that safety is foremost important for it and restated its dedication to following the highest standards of safety.
The DGCA’s decision that has been taken outlined the significance of following aviation safety regulations. It also ensures robust training practices that are essential for maintaining operational safety for shielding passenger trust. This incident is also a reminder of the strict standards that are required in the aviation industry.
(With inputs from PTI)