The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed a ₹1 crore fine on Air India for a serious safety violation. The airline operated an Airbus A320 on eight commercial flights without a valid Airworthiness Review Certificate (ARC), which is mandatory for ensuring an aircraft’s safety and maintenance compliance.
What Happened?
On 24 and 25 November 2025, the Air India Airbus A320 flew between New Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Hyderabad without a valid ARC. The Airworthiness Permit certifies that an aircraft meets all technical and safety standards. Operating flights without it is considered a serious violation.
DGCA’s Statement
DGCA stated that flying without a valid permit undermines aviation safety oversight and affects public confidence. The regulator has directed Air India to pay the fine within 30 days.
Why is Airworthiness Permit Important?
The ARC is an annual certificate confirming that an aircraft is safe for commercial operations. Without it, flying a plane not only breaches regulations but also poses significant risk to passenger safety.
Air India’s Response
Air India acknowledged the oversight, informed DGCA immediately, and initiated an internal investigation. The airline has assured that processes will be strengthened to prevent such incidents in the future.
The fine serves as a clear message that strict adherence to aviation rules and safety standards is essential. This incident highlights the importance of maintaining passenger safety and public trust in commercial aviation.