Following the tragic crash of an Air India flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, which claimed over 270 lives, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has undertaken a comprehensive safety audit of the Indian aviation sector. This audit, initiated on June 19, 2025, has revealed multiple lapses across airlines, airports, and maintenance facilities, raising concerns about safety standards and regulatory compliance. The findings highlight a range of issues, from worn aircraft tires and faulty simulators to faded runway markings and unserviceable ground equipment.
The DGCA's audit covered critical areas including flight operations, airworthiness, ramp safety, air traffic control, communication and navigation systems, and pre-flight medical evaluations. The regulator's investigation, conducted at major airports such as Delhi and Mumbai, found ineffective monitoring and inadequate corrective action on the defects by airport authorities. The comprehensive special audit aims to provide a holistic evaluation of the aviation sector by meticulously examining safety, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. This new audit framework is expected to proactively identify systemic vulnerabilities, enhance resilience, and ensure strict adherence to the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) and India's national aviation objectives.
One of the most concerning findings was the recurrence of defects on aircraft, indicating ineffective monitoring and inadequate rectification. For example, a domestic flight was delayed due to worn tires, and was only allowed to operate after repairs were made. In some instances, work orders were not followed during aircraft maintenance, and defect reports generated by aircraft systems were not recorded in technical logbooks. The DGCA also found issues with ground handling equipment, such as unserviceable baggage trolleys, and a failure to adhere to tool control and line maintenance store procedures.
At several airports, the audit revealed significant infrastructure deficiencies. The center line marking of one runway was observed as faded. In one case, obstruction limitation data had not been updated for three years, despite new construction in the surrounding area. These lapses pose potential risks to aircraft operations, particularly during low visibility conditions.
The DGCA has directed the concerned operators to take corrective actions within seven days, and has stated that it will continue its surveillance to identify further gaps in the aviation ecosystem. Non-compliance with the audit findings or failure to implement the Corrective Action Plan (CAP) will lead to consequences, including financial penalties or even licence revocation.
This audit marks a significant shift towards a more stringent and comprehensive approach to aviation safety in India. By addressing systemic vulnerabilities and enforcing stricter compliance with safety regulations, the DGCA aims to enhance the safety and reliability of air travel in the country. The audit's findings have already prompted increased scrutiny of airlines and airport operators, with a focus on improving maintenance practices, infrastructure management, and overall safety culture. The DGCA has also sought details of all inspections and audits conducted for Air India since 2024, indicating a heightened level of oversight for the airline following the recent crash.
