New Delhi, February 13: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed a fine of ₹1 crore on Air India. This action was taken because the airline operated an Airbus A320 aircraft eight times without a valid Airworthiness Review Certificate (ARC). The aviation regulator deemed this violation as ‘serious’ and held the company’s top management accountable for the safety lapse.
The DGCA’s penalty order stated that the Airbus A320 was flown between New Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Hyderabad on November 24 and 25 of last year without the mandatory Airworthiness Review Certificate.
The ARC is a crucial annual certificate issued by the aviation regulator when an aircraft successfully passes safety and regulatory checks. Operating without it is considered a significant breach of aviation safety regulations.
Sources indicate that the DGCA took this matter seriously and expressed concerns over the airline’s ‘careless attitude.’
In response to the DGCA’s order, an Air India spokesperson confirmed receipt of the directive, which pertains to an incident voluntarily reported in 2025. All identified deficiencies have been satisfactorily addressed, and the information has been communicated to the authority. Air India remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of operational reliability and safety.
Air India has been facing challenges since the aircraft accident in Ahmedabad last June. Following its acquisition under the privatization process, the company has not achieved the expected pace of financial recovery.
Reports suggest that Air India is searching for a new CEO to replace its current head, Campbell Wilson, whose contract ends in mid-2027. It is reported that he is not inclined to continue in his role. Sources indicate that this change may occur by mutual agreement.
N. Chandrasekaran, chairman of the Tata Group, has reportedly initiated preliminary discussions with potential CEO candidates who have significant experience in large airline operations.
The primary reason for the management change is believed to be Air India’s potential failure to achieve its break-even target by March 31. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner accident in Ahmedabad in June 2025 dealt a significant blow to the company and its revival plans.
Additionally, the closure of Indian aircraft routes by Pakistan has lengthened flight paths and increased operational costs, adversely affecting Air India’s financial performance.
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My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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