A scheduled domestic flight having worn-out tyres, resulting in its cancellation; multiple cases of reported defects reappearing, suggesting ineffective monitoring and inadequate rectification action; non-adherence to proper work orders and safety precautions during aircraft maintenance: these are some of the findings and actions of the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) as it conducts comprehensive surveillance at major airports, including those of Delhi and Mumbai.
The findings come as part of the surveillance launched by the aviation safety regulator in the aftermath of the 12 June crash of the London-bound Air India flight 171 outside Ahmedabad airport shortly after taking off. There is a lot that is rotten with airlines in India. The DGCA should crack the whip and cancel the licences of two of the worst-faring airlines; that would automatically make the others fall in line. Passenger safety is paramount, and the aviation regulatory bodies and watchdogs must take stringent action to ensure it.
