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New Delhi: An Air India plane flew eight times with an expired airworthiness licence between November 24 and November 25. The plane was later taken out of service after the matter was raised by an engineer.
The licence is mandatory for all flights to ensure the safety of passengers. The matter increased concerns among the authorities as the discrepancy was noticed months after the deadly Air India crash in which nearly 260 people lost their lives. Only one person miraculously survived the tragedy.
This licence is issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Once this licence is issued, it means that the aircraft meets all the requirements that is necessary to fly and is in safe conditions. It is issued after the aircraft passes all necessary maintenance tests and inspections.
Flying without an airworthiness certificate is a serious offence. Flying between this licence means not only breaking the aviation law but lso putting life of passengers at serious risk. Rule 15 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, suggests that no aircraft can fly unless this certificate is issued or has a valid certificate issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
As per the norms, aircraft must be maintained properly, and the rules under the aviation norms must be followed before flying. Pilots must also carry the certificate with them while flying. In India, licences are renewed every three months and engineers are supposed to check the licence every.
Reacting to the development, Air India said that the staff responsible for allowing aircraft to fly has been suspended, The Economic Times. While the plane has now been grounded, the DGCA has also been informed of the incident. The plane may also face trouble in terms of lease and insurance.
