In a sharp move, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed Air India to remove three top officials from key operational roles. The action targets Choorah Singh (Divisional VP, IOCC), Pinky Mittal (Chief Manager, Crew Scheduling), and Payal Arora (Crew Scheduling-Planning). The regulator cited repeated violations in pilot duty scheduling and oversight, pointing to deep-rooted systemic issues within Air India’s operations.
DGCA Issues Strong Warning After Safety Concerns
In its June 20 enforcement order, DGCA noted a worrying lack of accountability and disciplinary action among senior personnel involved in critical crew management functions. The regulator emphasized that continued violations could result in severe penalties, including suspension or withdrawal of Air India’s operator license. The action follows scrutiny after the June 12 crash of an Air India Boeing 787, which killed 241 passengers and over 30 on the ground.
Air India Responds, Assigns Interim Oversight
Air India has confirmed compliance with the DGCA order, stating that the three staffers have been removed from their roles. The airline also announced that its Chief Operations Officer will now directly oversee the Integrated Operations Control Centre (IOCC). Reiterating its commitment to passenger safety, Air India said it would ensure strict adherence to all crew scheduling norms and aviation safety protocols going forward.
