**Air India Addresses Airworthiness Certificate Controversy**
Air India, the airline owned by the Tata Group, has responded to allegations regarding the operation of an aircraft without a valid airworthiness certificate. In a statement, an Air India spokesperson expressed regret over the incident, confirming that one of their aircraft operated without an airworthiness review certificate. The airline promptly reported the situation to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and suspended all personnel involved in the decision, pending further investigation. Air India has launched a thorough internal inquiry and is fully cooperating with the regulator.
The airline emphasized its commitment to upholding the highest standards of operational integrity and safety, stating that any breach of compliance protocols is taken very seriously and deemed unacceptable.
This clarification follows a report from The Economic Times, which indicated that a 164-seat Airbus A320 flew eight times on November 24 and 25 with an expired airworthiness license. The issue was identified by an engineer, leading to the aircraft being taken out of service.
**DGCA Investigation Underway**
The DGCA has acknowledged being informed about the Air India aircraft operating on an expired airworthiness review certificate for eight sectors. An investigation is currently in progress, and the aircraft has been grounded. The DGCA has mandated the operator to ground the aircraft and is conducting an internal investigation to identify system deficiencies and implement corrective measures to prevent future occurrences.
This incident is expected to be classified as a Level 1 violation by the DGCA, indicating a serious safety concern. It marks another operational error for Air India, following the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, which resulted in 260 fatalities.
**Understanding Airworthiness Certificates**
An airworthiness certificate, issued by the DGCA, certifies that an aircraft is safe for operation. It must be renewed annually after the aircraft passes essential maintenance and safety inspections. Operating an aircraft without a valid certificate is illegal and poses significant safety risks, potentially leading to severe penalties for the operator and responsible officials.
**Conclusion**
The recent incident highlights the critical importance of compliance with aviation safety regulations. Air India’s swift response and commitment to internal investigation reflect the airline’s dedication to maintaining safety standards. As the DGCA continues its investigation, the aviation community will be watching closely to see how Air India addresses these challenges moving forward.
**FAQ**
**What is an airworthiness certificate?**
An airworthiness certificate is a document issued by the DGCA that certifies an aircraft’s safety for operation. It must be renewed annually after passing necessary inspections.