India's aviation watchdog has taken strict action against the national carrier, Air India, for allegedly operating an aircraft with known technical problems. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a formal show-cause notice to the airline, demanding an explanation for operating a specific Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner despite being aware of repeated technical issues.
Details of the DGCA Notice and Safety Lapses
The regulatory action, initiated this week, centers around a specific Dreamliner aircraft with the registration VT-ANI. According to sources within the DGCA, the notice highlights multiple safety and procedural lapses. A key point of contention is the operation of a flight on June 28 this year, where the airline reportedly did not comply with the stipulated Minimum Equipment List (MEL).
The MEL is a critical safety document that outlines which aircraft systems can be inoperative for a flight to still be dispatched legally and safely. Non-adherence to MEL norms is considered a serious violation of safety protocols.
Specific Flights and Broader Safety Concerns
The DGCA's notice raised specific concerns related to the operation of flights AI 258 and AI 357. While the exact dates of these problematic flights are still being confirmed, both services are known to operate on the crucial Delhi to Tokyo route. The regulator flagged issues concerning aircraft dispatch procedures, the aforementioned MEL norm adherence, and the decision-making process of the flight crew during these operations.
Most alarmingly, the DGCA noted that the airline chose to operate the aircraft despite having prior knowledge of repeated technical snags and existing system degradations. This suggests a conscious decision to fly the plane while it was not in optimal condition, putting operational safety at potential risk.
Air India's Silence and Operational Status of the Aircraft
When approached for comments on the serious allegations, Air India did not respond to queries on the matter. This lack of immediate clarification from the airline has added to the gravity of the situation. Furthermore, it remains unclear whether the aircraft in question, VT-ANI, has been subsequently taken out of service for thorough inspection and rectification of the reported technical issues.
This incident puts a spotlight on the airline's maintenance and operational safety culture, especially under its new ownership. The DGCA's show-cause notice is a formal step that could lead to further investigation and potential penalties if Air India's explanation is found unsatisfactory. The aviation regulator's proactive stance underscores its commitment to enforcing the highest safety standards in Indian skies.
