DGCA audit reveals multiple safety violations, defects at major airports

• The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) conducted an intensive surveillance drive across major Indian airports within two weeks of the Air India plane crash.

• Surveillance covered multiple critical areas:

• Flight operations

• Airworthiness

• Ramp safety

• Air Traffic Control (ATC)

• Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance (CNS) systems

• Pre-flight medical evaluations

• Faded runway centreline markings

• Outdated obstruction limitation data (not updated for 3 years)

• Domestic flight delayed due to worn-out tyres

• Repeated defects on aircraft, showing ineffective maintenance

• Unserviceable thrust reverser and flap slat lever not locked

• Flight simulator mismatched with aircraft configuration and outdated software

• Recurrent issues suggest poor oversight and inadequate rectification

• Work order not followed during aircraft maintenance in at least one case

• DGCA has issued notices to concerned entities for corrective action within 7 days

• Surveillance will continue to identify hazards and strengthen aviation safety

• Regulatory body for civil aviation in India

• Works under the Ministry of Civil Aviation

• Headquarters: New Delhi

• Regulates air safety, airworthiness, and air operations

• Issues licenses to pilots, engineers, and airlines

• Conducts inspections, audits, and accident investigations

• Coordinates with ICAO and other global aviation bodies.