DGCA Cracks Down After Air India Crash: New Safety Checks Ordered

1. Comprehensive Pre‑departure Safety Checks for B787‑8/‑9 Fleet
Effective June 15, 2025, DGCA mandated a new layer of safety inspections on all Boeing 787‑8 and 787‑9 aircraft operated by Air India with GenX engines. This includes: fuel-parameter monitoring systems; cabin air compressors; electronic engine control systems; engine fuel-driven actuators and oil systems; hydraulic serviceability; and a detailed review of take‑off performance data. In addition, airlines are now required to conduct “flight control inspections” during transit stops, implement power-assurance checks within two weeks, and close out maintenance snags reported over the prior 15 days – all under close DGCA oversight

2. Mandatory Reporting and Oversight
DGCA has instructed Air India to submit detailed reports of each inspection to the regulator for evaluation. The aim is to verify corrective action completion and ensure no aircraft departs without thorough vetting. This has already triggered a wave of flight delays and cancellations: as of June 20, more than 60 B787 services were disrupted — including eight additional cancellations on the same day .

3. Pilot and Dispatcher Training Records & Emergency Preparedness
Beyond mechanical scrutiny, DGCA has demanded that Air India furnish training records for the pilots and dispatcher of the ill-fated Flight AI 171. This is part of a broader audit of training, maintenance, and licensing systems across the airline and flying schools. Additionally, the DGCA has issued orders for emergency-response drills at all government-run airports to be conducted by June 30