India’s aviation watchdog, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has issued a show cause notice to Air India for significant delays in two international flights and failure to provide proper care to passengers.
India Calls for Protection of Civilians in Gaza Amid Israeli AirstrikesAccording to news reports, the DGCA cited repeated incidents where Air India compromised passenger comfort, violating DGCA norms.
Flight Delays and Discomfort:
- AI 183 from Delhi to San Francisco on May 30
- AI 179 from Mumbai to San Francisco on May 24
- Both flights faced inordinate delays
- Passengers experienced discomfort due to insufficient cabin cooling
DGCA’s Notice to Air India:
- Highlights repeated violations of passenger care norms
- Questions why enforcement action should not be initiated
- Demands a response from Air India within 3 days
Passenger Accounts:
- A passenger reported an 8-hour delay for AI 183
- Passengers boarded without air conditioning
- Some fainted due to the lack of cooling, leading to deplaning
Air India’s Response:
- Acknowledged disruptions and delays
- Assured efforts to address the situation
- Committed to providing necessary assistance to passengers
Regulatory Action:
- The show cause notice followed the Civil Aviation Minister’s notice of the incidents
- Indicates potential enforcement action against Air India for violations
As the aviation regulator holds Air India accountable, the airline faces scrutiny for failing to adhere to passenger comfort standards, compromising safety and service quality in these recent international flight operations.