DGCA Fines Air India Rs 1 Crore for Operating Airbus A320 Without Certification

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has fined Air India Rs 1 crore. This penalty is for operating an Airbus A320 neo without a valid airworthiness certificate on eight routes last year, as per sources. The DGCA began investigating this issue on December 2 last year.

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On November 26, 2025, Air India reported to the DGCA that it had flown an A320 aircraft with an expired airworthiness review certificate (ARC) on eight revenue sectors. The ARC is a yearly validation of an aircraft's main certificate of airworthiness. It involves a detailed review of maintenance records, physical condition, and compliance with airworthiness standards.

Air India's Response to DGCA's Fine

Air India has acknowledged receiving the DGCA's order regarding this incident, which was voluntarily reported in 2025. The airline stated that all identified gaps have been addressed and shared with the authority. "All identified gaps have since been satisfactorily addressed and shared with the authority," the airline said in a statement.

The DGCA has delegated powers to Air India to issue the ARC for its aircraft. However, this incident highlights lapses in adhering to these norms. Tata Group-owned Air India has faced regulatory actions for other violations in the past as well.

Understanding the Airworthiness Review Certificate

The ARC is crucial for ensuring an aircraft's safety and compliance with standards. It confirms that the aircraft meets all necessary airworthiness requirements. Without a valid ARC, an aircraft should not be operated commercially.

This recent fine underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date certifications for operational safety. The DGCA's action serves as a reminder of the stringent regulations governing aviation safety in India.

Air India's proactive approach in reporting the incident and addressing gaps shows its commitment to compliance. However, adherence to regulations remains critical to avoid such penalties in the future.

With inputs from PTI