India’s aviation watchdog has launched surprise audits at major airports, including Delhi and Mumbai, following a fatal Air India crash that exposed alarming gaps in infrastructure and training. The audits have uncovered worn-out tyres on aircraft, cracked runways, and outdated flight simulators, raising red flags about aviation safety in the country.
Initial findings revealed faded runway markings, insufficient runway friction, and simulator equipment that failed to meet current regulatory standards. These deficiencies, experts warn, could lead to more accidents if not urgently addressed. The regulator has now directed airport operators and airlines to submit corrective action plans within strict deadlines.
The fatal crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad last week, when investigators discovered potential shortcomings in both aircraft maintenance and pilot training, served as the impetus for the audit. As a result, tens of thousands of domestic and international aircraft pass through India’s major hubs, prompting officials to expand their safety nett.
According to industry insiders, years of fast aircraft expansion have overtaken improvements in infrastructure. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said it will not tolerate any safety infractions as monitoring increases and that protecting passengers must always come first, even if it means halting aircraft or punishing operators.
