DGCA Flags Safety Gaps After Nationwide Airport Surveillance

In a major safety review exercise, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has uncovered several operational and maintenance lapses across key Indian airports, following a focused surveillance drive under Order No. DGCA-22034/2/2025-FSD, issued on 19 June 2025. The inspections, conducted by two DGCA teams led by the Joint Director General, covered night and early morning operations at major hubs including Delhi and Mumbai.

Key Findings

The surveillance spanned critical areas such as flight operations, airworthiness, ramp safety, ATC, CNS systems, and pre-flight medical checks. Observations included:

• Recurring aircraft defects were found unresolved, with ineffective monitoring and rectification.
• Unserviceable ground handling equipment like baggage trolleys and belt loaders.
• Improper maintenance practices, such as safety procedures not being followed and defective parts like thrust reversers and flap slat levers left unlocked.
• Logbook discrepancies, with system-generated defect reports not recorded.
• Missing or unsecured life vests, and damaged corrosion tape on aircraft winglets.

At one airport:

• Faded runway centre-line markings and misaligned taxiway lights were flagged.
• Obstruction data had not been updated for over three years, despite new construction in the area.
• Ramp vehicles lacked speed governors; their Airport Vehicle Permits were revoked and driver passes suspended.

In simulator inspections, aircraft configuration mismatches and outdated software were noted. A domestic flight was also grounded due to worn tyres, resuming only after the issue was rectified.

All findings have been formally shared with the concerned operators, who have been directed to implement corrective measures within seven days.

Ongoing Oversight

DGCA reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of India’s civil aviation network. The surveillance programme will continue as part of its efforts to proactively detect and mitigate operational hazards.