India aviation regulator faces scrutiny following Air India flight incident

An investigation is underway by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) into Air India flight AI-2379, which experienced a sudden 300-foot altitude drop while flying from Phuket to Delhi. The incident resulted in injuries to 20 passengers and four cabin crew members. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated that a preliminary report is expected soon, noting that the flight data recorder and the aircraft are intact and in the possession of investigators.

The incident has raised significant concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Reports indicate that the regulator is struggling to keep pace with the country’s expanding aviation market. Data shows that as of April 2025, the DGCA had identified 4,692 safety deficiencies, but only 945 had been resolved, leaving over 3,700 pending.

In response to the incident and potential issues regarding pilot impairment, the DGCA is conducting stakeholder consultations to review and strengthen regulations concerning substance use in aviation. Previous findings have highlighted recurring defects in audited aircraft and safety lapses at major carriers, including IndiGo and Air India.