<p class="bodytext">The recent crash of the Air India flight AI 171 in Ahmedabad which killed 275 people has prompted a study on the problems faced by the country’s aviation sector. A preliminary audit, conducted by the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) in the form of surprise checks on airline companies, airports, and maintenance facilities has brought to light serious gaps. These checks covered areas such as flight operations, airworthiness, ramp safety, air traffic control, communication, navigation systems, and pre-flight medical evaluations. It was found that safety infrastructure was outdated or ineffective in many places, as evidenced by worn-out tyres and unsecured life vests. Lighting and runway markings were poor even at major airports. There were many cases of reported defects reappearing later. Ground equipment were found to be unserviceable. Any single issue of this kind could lead to a mishap if not attended to in time. Studies have shown that most air crashes happen during landing or take-off. This underlines the importance of ground operations and communications and especially the need for free space around airports which should serve as safety corridors or buffer zones. Most of the old airports in India, including in Ahmedabad, are located in thickly populated areas. It should be noted that the number of casualties in the Ahmedabad crash increased because the aircraft came down on the buildings.</p>.Air India crash: India reportedly denies entry to UN aviation investigator; US official hopes findings shared quickly .<p class="bodytext">This week, another Air India flight, AI 130 from London to Mumbai, saw seven people, including crew members, fall ill mid-air. They experienced nausea and dizziness, allegedly due to food poisoning or possible cabin decompression. Such incidents point to air safety standards and create a sense of insecurity among passengers. Some international flights were also cancelled in recent days, creating uncertainty and disruption.</p>.<p class="bodytext">The problems found in the DGCA checks are systemic and should be addressed effectively. As the regulator of the aviation sector responsible for formulating and enforcing safety measures, the DGCA did well to make surprise audits after the Ahmedabad crash. However, such audits and follow-up measures should be done regularly. It should also ensure that the problems identified in the checks are resolved immediately. There must be accountability for lapses in all areas. The DGCA should function as an independent regulator, free of all forms of pressure, including from the government. India’s aviation sector has made rapid progress in recent years and is set to grow further. Passenger safety should be the most important consideration for all the stakeholders – there cannot be any compromise on that.</p>
<p class="bodytext">The recent crash of the Air India flight AI 171 in Ahmedabad which killed 275 people has prompted a study on the problems faced by the country’s aviation sector. A preliminary audit, conducted by the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) in the form of surprise checks on airline companies, airports, and maintenance facilities has brought to light serious gaps. These checks covered areas such as flight operations, airworthiness, ramp safety, air traffic control, communication, navigation systems, and pre-flight medical evaluations. It was found that safety infrastructure was outdated or ineffective in many places, as evidenced by worn-out tyres and unsecured life vests. Lighting and runway markings were poor even at major airports. There were many cases of reported defects reappearing later. Ground equipment were found to be unserviceable. Any single issue of this kind could lead to a mishap if not attended to in time. Studies have shown that most air crashes happen during landing or take-off. This underlines the importance of ground operations and communications and especially the need for free space around airports which should serve as safety corridors or buffer zones. Most of the old airports in India, including in Ahmedabad, are located in thickly populated areas. It should be noted that the number of casualties in the Ahmedabad crash increased because the aircraft came down on the buildings.</p>.Air India crash: India reportedly denies entry to UN aviation investigator; US official hopes findings shared quickly .<p class="bodytext">This week, another Air India flight, AI 130 from London to Mumbai, saw seven people, including crew members, fall ill mid-air. They experienced nausea and dizziness, allegedly due to food poisoning or possible cabin decompression. Such incidents point to air safety standards and create a sense of insecurity among passengers. Some international flights were also cancelled in recent days, creating uncertainty and disruption.</p>.<p class="bodytext">The problems found in the DGCA checks are systemic and should be addressed effectively. As the regulator of the aviation sector responsible for formulating and enforcing safety measures, the DGCA did well to make surprise audits after the Ahmedabad crash. However, such audits and follow-up measures should be done regularly. It should also ensure that the problems identified in the checks are resolved immediately. There must be accountability for lapses in all areas. The DGCA should function as an independent regulator, free of all forms of pressure, including from the government. India’s aviation sector has made rapid progress in recent years and is set to grow further. Passenger safety should be the most important consideration for all the stakeholders – there cannot be any compromise on that.</p>
