India’s aviation regulator has issued a show-cause notice to Air India’s cockpit crew over alleged serious safety violations. The notice cites multiple long-haul flights operated despite repeated technical faults, system warnings, and known compliance gaps.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has emphasised that strict action will be taken and has directed the pilots to respond within 14 days. The notice, dated December 29, specifically concerns flights on the Delhi-Tokyo sector, including AI-357 from Delhi to Tokyo and AI-358 on the return journey. An Air India source confirmed receipt of the notice, noting it is the second communication from the DGCA related to operations on this route.
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According to the regulator, one flight reported multiple system alerts, and a smell resembling smoke was detected near an aircraft door. On another occasion, technical issues with the heating and cooling systems, classified under the Minimum Equipment List (MEL), prompted a diversion of the flight to Kolkata.
The DGCA’s action highlights concerns over adherence to safety protocols and operational compliance. Air India has yet to comment on the notice, while aviation experts stress that repeated technical faults on long-haul flights pose significant risks to passengers and crew, underscoring the need for rigorous monitoring and timely corrective measures.
