Indian aviation regulatory authority DGCA has imposed a fine of Rs 30 lakh on Tata Group owned Air India. Financial penalties have been imposed for failure to address a “security-sensitive issue”. It should be noted that the authority’s decision comes weeks after a pilot of the airline allowed his female friend in the cockpit during a flight. The incident took place on February 27 on a Dubai-Delhi flight.
Also, the license of the Air India pilot who operated the aircraft has been suspended for three months. The aviation watchdog has taken action against the pilot for “abuse of authority”. In addition, the co-pilot present at the time of the incident has been warned for “not being vocal” during the safety breach.
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Addressing the issue, the DGCA statement said, “The commanding pilot of the flight allowed entry into the cockpit during cruise to Air India staff traveling as a passenger in violation of DGCA regulations. Air India has been fined Rs 30 lakh.” Not promptly and effectively addressing a security-sensitive issue.”
The “incident” was informed by confidential mail to Campbell and Donohoe on March 3, PTI quoted earlier sources as saying. The first investigation by DGCA was done on 21 April, while Air India had not conducted any investigation before this.
As per DGCA CAR (Civil Aviation Regulation) and Air India Operations Manual, only authorized persons who have passed preflight BA test (as enforced by regulation) may enter and sit in the cockpit, provided they are on inspection or flight Be aimed at Security only.