'Putting thousands of lives at risk'; Vistara's controversial eight services

NEW DELHI: Vistara's Airbus A320 was flying in the air, putting thousands of lives at risk. Not one or two, but eight services were completed in this time frame by Vistara. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced an investigation against Air India for operating services without a safety certificate (Airworthiness Review Certificate). The Air India-Vistara merger was in 2024. 69 out of 70 Vistara aircraft have received this certificate. One aircraft couldn't obtain the certificate on time.

During the period when the application for certificate renewal was submitted, the engine was grounded for replacement. In the meantime, the certificate expired. The engine was replaced, and the service resumed. But the certificate was not obtained. Last November, it operated on eight routes. Air India itself, taking note of the issue, informed the DGCA on November 26. Air India has the authority to issue safety certificates to its own aircraft. However, the DGCA took the position that it would issue certificates directly to Vistara aircraft even after the merger.

Air India expressed regret over the incident. Eight employees responsible were suspended. The DGCA was informed as soon as it was noticed that the certificate was not available. Air India will cooperate with the investigation. An internal investigation is being conducted.

Airworthiness Certificate

• A certificate issued to confirm that an aircraft is fit to fly. It is issued after conducting an annual safety inspection of the aircraft.
• Maintenance, current condition, problems, suitability for airworthiness, and safety standards are checked and ensured.