India's DGCA Questions Air India Pilots Over Boeing 787 Safety Violations

January 1, 2026 at 05:15 AM•2 min read

India's DGCA issued a show-cause notice to Air India pilots for alleged Minimum Equipment List (MEL) and safety rule violations on flights AI-357/358, demanding a 14-day response.

Key Points

1The DGCA issued the show-cause notice regarding flights AI-357 and AI-358 (Delhi-Tokyo route).
2Allegations focus on Minimum Equipment List (MEL) compliance and improper crew decision-making.
3The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, reportedly had five prior snags and a smell of smoke was detected during one flight.
4Pilots must submit their official response to the regulator within 14 days to avoid ex parte disciplinary action.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a show-cause notice to pilots of Air India.

This action follows serious safety concerns related to specific flight operations. The notice, dated December 29, 2025, requires a response within 14 days. Pilots must explain why regulatory action should not be taken against them.

Regulatory Action Details

The DGCA's scrutiny focuses on the operation of flights AI-358 and its linked return flight AI-357. These flights operate between Delhi and Tokyo, utilizing a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft. The aircraft involved was registered as VT-ANI.

The regulator cited alleged violations of aviation safety rules and Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR). The core issues revolve around Minimum Equipment List (MEL) compliance and aircraft dispatch procedures. The DGCA claims the pilots accepted the aircraft despite knowing about repeated snags.

Specific Safety Lapses

Records show the same aircraft had reported similar technical problems on at least five earlier flights. During one flight, the crew received system warnings. A smell of smoke was also reported near the R2 door.

The notice specifically highlighted that the aircraft was dispatched with incompatible MEL items. Furthermore, the lower right recirculation fan reportedly violated MEL 'O' conditions. The DGCA stated the crew failed to properly assess the combined impact of multiple system degradations. This raised significant concerns about flight crew decision-making and adherence to standard operating procedures.

Industry and Safety Implications

This DGCA action underscores the regulator's push to strengthen Air India flight safety oversight. The show-cause notice is a formal step toward potential enforcement action. Failure to submit a satisfactory reply within the stipulated 14 days could result in an ex parte decision.

Risk: Pilots face potential disciplinary action, including license suspension.
Impact: The incident highlights the critical importance of strict Minimum Equipment List compliance for all airlines.
Oversight: Regulatory bodies like the DGCA and international groups like IATA emphasize a non-negotiable commitment to safety protocols. This is vital for maintaining global aviation trust.

Adherence to safety regulations is paramount for all commercial aviation news stakeholders. The DGCA's investigation signals a zero-tolerance policy for safety lapses in Indian air travel. For more updates on this story and other developments in the sector, visit commercial aviation news.