Indian Regulator DGCA Found Repetitive Defects on 377 Aircraft in 2025

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) reported significant findings. India's aviation safety surveillance 2025 efforts were extensive. The regulator identified repetitive defects in 377 aircraft. This data comes from a review of 754 planes. Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol shared the figures. He presented the information to the Lok Sabha. The defects are recurring technical issues. These issues reappeared after initial repair attempts.

Increased Safety Oversight

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) intensified its oversight. This was part of a planned surveillance program. The regulator conducted 3,890 surveillance inspections in 2025. It also completed 56 regulatory audits. Further checks included 492 ramp inspections. Unplanned oversight included 874 spot checks. This focus aims to improve aircraft maintenance compliance. It strengthens overall Indian civil aviation safety.

Airline Operational Safety Breakdown

The 377 aircraft repetitive defects span six scheduled carriers. The data was current as of early February 2026. The findings highlight persistent maintenance challenges.

Key Findings by Carrier

• Air India Group showed the highest proportion of issues. The group includes Air India and Air India Express. Out of 267 aircraft checked, 191 were flagged. This represents nearly 72 percent of their fleet reviewed.
• IndiGo had the largest number of aircraft analyzed. Of their 405 planes, 148 were flagged for recurring defects.
• SpiceJet had 16 aircraft flagged from 43 analyzed.
• Akasa Air had 14 aircraft flagged from 32 analyzed.

Nature and Impact of Defects

Airlines stated that most defects were non-critical. Air India noted many issues were “Category D” items. These are the lowest priority for aircraft defects. Examples include broken passenger seats or tray tables. They also include in-flight entertainment system faults. Such defects do not immediately compromise flight safety. However, the recurrence suggests maintenance challenges. It highlights a need for better root-cause analysis.

The DGCA is taking steps to address regulatory capacity. Sanctioned technical posts have increased to 1,063. This restructuring aims to strengthen regulatory oversight. The intensified aviation safety surveillance 2025 shows commitment. It pushes for higher airline operational safety standards.

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