In March 2025, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) flagged Air India Express for failing to replace critical engine parts on an Airbus A320 (VT-ATD), as required by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). These parts—linked to CFM International’s LEAP-1A engines—were found to have manufacturing defects that could result in catastrophic engine failure and loss of control during flight.
What shocked regulators further was the discovery that Air India Express falsified compliance records1, altering entries in its AMOS software, a maintenance tracking system, to make it appear as if the work was completed.
Why This Is a Big Deal
- Lives at Risk: The DGCA warned that the unresolved defect could lead to “high energy debris release,” potentially damaging the aircraft’s structure and control surfaces.
- Falsified Records: This goes beyond negligence—it suggests a systemic culture of cover-ups, compromising aviation safety.
- Recent Crash in Ahmedabad: The news comes in the wake of a fatal Air India crash, raising public fears and triggering deeper scrutiny of the airline’s operations.
- Multiple Violations: This is not a one-off. Earlier in 2024, DGCA flagged escape slide check lapses and pilot duty hour violations, painting a broader picture of non-compliance.
What Has the Airline Said?
Air India Express admitted to the issue and claimed it has implemented corrective measures, though specifics remain unclear. Transparency and accountability now become critical to rebuilding trust.
What Needs to Happen Next?
- Independent Safety Audit: An external investigation should be launched immediately to audit all fleet maintenance records and procedures.
- Accountability: Top-level management and engineers involved in document tampering must be held responsible.
- Stricter Oversight: The DGCA must intensify checks, not only on Air India Express but on all Indian carriers, especially in light of rising incidents.
Final Thoughts
This is not just a breach of protocol—it’s a betrayal of passenger trust. In a rapidly expanding aviation market like India’s, safety must never play second fiddle to profitability or pressure. With the Tata Group attempting to rebuild Air India’s brand, such revelations threaten to derail hard-won progress.
