Following the Ahmedabad air crash, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken swift and stringent action, implementing significant measures to enhance aviation safety. Given the possibility of lapses and negligence in safety standards, a decision directly impacting Air India has been made.
DGCA Action: In the aftermath of the devastating air crash in Ahmedabad, India's DGCA has taken b action against Air India, ordering the immediate removal of three senior officials from all responsibilities related to crew scheduling and rostering. This action centers on the Divisional Vice President and two other officials accused of negligence in crew management.
Ahmedabad Crash Exposes Flaws
On June 12, 2025, Air India flight AI-171, en route to London, crashed into a medical college campus in Ahmedabad. This horrific accident resulted in the death of 270 people, including 242 passengers on board and 28 on the ground. This incident shook India's aviation industry, prompting the DGCA to initiate comprehensive investigation and reform measures.
Why the DGCA Took Strict Action?
According to the DGCA, Air India exhibited serious negligence regarding crew scheduling, licensing, rest, and renewal requirements. Reviews of the ARMS (Air Route Management System) and CAE flight management system revealed that crews were incorrectly scheduled, failing to meet licensing or minimum rest requirements.
Furthermore, serious administrative shortcomings were uncovered, including unauthorized crew pairings, violation of time protocols, inadequate oversight, and a clear failure of accountability. The DGCA deemed this not only a disregard for safety standards but also a threat to air safety.
Disciplinary Action and Demand for Report
On June 20, the DGCA issued an order to Air India mandating the immediate removal of the three officials from any crew-related roles and the initiation of disciplinary proceedings against them. The DGCA requested a detailed report from Air India within 10 days to ensure further action.
The DGCA also issued a show-cause notice to Air India's accountable manager. It noted that two flights from Bangalore to London on May 16 and 17 violated the maximum 10-hour time limit, contravening safety regulations. The DGCA demanded an explanation within seven days, warning of severe punitive action if not provided.
The DGCA clarified that future instances of such negligence could lead to the suspension of relevant licenses and operational restrictions. The DGCA believes that negligent practices such as crew fatigue, poor scheduling, and reduced rest periods can cause major accidents.
Air India's Response: Order Implemented
Air India, in an official statement acknowledging the DGCA's order, stated, "We have taken the regulator's concerns seriously, and the relevant orders have been implemented with immediate effect. Our Chief Operating Officer will now directly oversee the IOCC (Integrated Operations Control Centre). We will ensure full compliance with all safety standards and protocols."
The identification of the deceased is progressing rapidly. Dr. Rakesh Joshi, Medical Superintendent of the Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, reported that DNA testing has identified 215 bodies, 198 of which have been released to their families. These deceased include 149 Indian nationals, 32 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian citizen. This count also includes the 7 people killed on the ground.
