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New Delhi: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed a total fine of Rs 40 lakh on IndiGo Airlines for conducting pilot training using unqualified flight simulators for operations at critical airports such as Calicut, Leh and Kathmandu.
According to reports, the DGCA levied two separate fines Rs 20 lakh each on IndiGo's Director of Training and Director of Flight Operations for non-compliance with the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) and directives issued under Rule 133A of the Aircraft Rules, 1937.
The aviation regulator's investigation found that simulator training for nearly 1,700 pilots, comprising both Captains and First Officers, was carried out using Full Flight Simulators (FFS) that were not approved pr qualified for Category C airports. Airports such as Calicut, Leh, and Kathmandu fall under this category due to their challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions. Pilots operating in such environments are required to undergo training on simulators specifically for these airports.
The DGCA identified 20 simulators used for training sessions across facilities in Chennai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Greater Noida, Gurugram, and Hyderabad. These simulators are owned by organisations including CSTPL, FSTC, ACAT and Airbus were reportedly "not qualified for Calicut and Leh," yet were used for training.
The DGCA issued a show-cause notice to IndiGo's Director of Training on August 11, 2025, seeking an explanation. However, IndiGo's response submitted on August 22 was deemed unsatisfactory. The regulator concluded that the airline failed to ensure compliance with CAR provisions regarding the use of appropriately qualified simulators.
“You were responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable Civil Aviation Requirements. However, it has been observed that you have failed to ensure the use of appropriately qualified simulators for training related to Class III (critical) airports,” the DGCA’s order stated.
The DGCA imposed penalties citing Rule 162 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, and Schedule VI-B (Severity Level 5). It also directed IndiGo's senior officials to deposit the amount in the Bharatkosh government's account within 30 days. The airline has the option to appeal the decision within the same period by paying a statutory fee of Rs 1,000.
