DGCA Orders Suspension of Akasa Air Directors for Training Compliance Failures

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has suspended Akasa Air's director of operations and director of training for six months. This decision follows alleged shortcomings in pilot training compliance. The DGCA found that these senior officials did not adhere to civil aviation requirements, as stated in separate orders dated December 27.

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The DGCA's investigation revealed that Akasa Air conducted RNP training approaches on simulators not qualified for such training. This was identified during a regulatory audit on October 7, 2024, at SNV Aviation Private Limited, Akasa Air, Mumbai. The DGCA highlighted this as a breach of Para 7 of CAR Section 7, Series D, Part VI.

Compliance Issues and Responses

Akasa Air's directors received show-cause notices on October 15 and October 30. Their responses were deemed unsatisfactory by the DGCA, leading to their suspension. The DGCA also advised Akasa Air to appoint suitable replacements for these positions. A response from the airline regarding this matter is still awaited.

The DGCA emphasised that the directors failed to ensure compliance with Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR). They did not adequately train personnel and repeatedly violated training protocols. These lapses were significant enough to warrant the suspension of the two senior executives.

Regulatory Audit Findings

The DGCA's audit uncovered multiple violations related to training at Akasa Air. The directors were found lacking in fulfilling their duties to meet legal requirements and maintain safe operations. These findings were part of the rationale behind the suspension orders issued by the aviation safety regulator.

In its orders, the DGCA stated: "It has been found in regulatory audit conducted by DGCA on Oct 7, 2024, at M/s SNV Aviation Private Limited Akasa Air, Mumbai, that RNP training Approaches is being conducted on simulators which have not been qualified for the same... which is in violation of Para 7 of CAR Section 7, Series D, Part VI."

This situation underscores the importance of strict adherence to aviation regulations. Ensuring compliance is crucial for maintaining safety standards within the industry. The DGCA's actions highlight its commitment to enforcing these standards rigorously.