Air India has removed three top officials, including its Divisional Vice President, from their positions. The action comes on the heels of a strong directive from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which cited serious lapses in crew scheduling and operational oversight.
The move follows the tragic crash of an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, claiming 269 lives — 241 passengers and crew, and 28 civilians on the ground. Only one person miraculously survived the horrific incident.
In response, the DGCA launched an aggressive safety audit across the airline’s fleet and demanded immediate completion of all pending maintenance and servicing protocols. The aviation regulator also issued new compliance guidelines aimed at tightening safety practices.
Adding to the crisis, fresh allegations have emerged that three Airbus aircraft were allowed to fly despite bypassing mandatory safety inspections — deepening public concern and regulatory scrutiny.
The bold steps signal a critical turning point for Air India, as it faces intense pressure to restore trust, revamp safety systems, and prevent future catastrophes.