An Air India Airbus A350 aeroplane is displayed at Wings India 2024 aviation at Begumpet airport, Hyderabad
Credit: Reuters Photo
New Delhi: The country's aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed a penalty of Rs 99 lakh on Air India and its two senior officials for operating a flight with non-qualified pilots.
While Air India has been penalised for Rs 90 lakh, the airline's Director of Operations Pankul Mathur and Director of Training Manish Vasavada were fined Rs six lakh and Rs three lakh respectively, a DGCA statement said.
The concerned pilot has also been warned to exercise caution to prevent such occurrences in future.
The action by the regulator came as Air India Limited operated a flight commanded by a non-trainer line captain who was paired with a non-line-released first officer. This was "viewed by the regulator as a serious scheduling incident having significant safety ramifications", the statement said.
Air India had on July 10 voluntarily reported the matter to the DGCA following which an investigation was launched.
"Taking cognizance of this incident, the regulator undertook comprehensive investigations into M/s Air India Limited operations including examination of documentations and spot check of M/s Air India Limited Scheduling Facility," the statement said.
Based on investigation, the DGCA found there were "deficiencies and multiple violations" to the regulatory provisions by several post holders and staff, which could significantly affect safety.
"The concerned commander of the flight and DGCA approved Post Holders of M/s Air India Limited were provided an opportunity to explain their position vide show cause notices dated July 22. The reply submitted by the concerned failed to provide satisfactory justification," it said.