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Introduction: Air India’s Alarming Safety Record in 2024-2025
In recent months, Air India—India’s flagship carrier—has come under intense scrutiny following a series of safety-related incidents that have not only raised public alarm but have also prompted direct intervention by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). These incidents, ranging from aborted take-offs to engine failures upon landing, are not isolated cases. With nine DGCA notices issued in just six months, the pattern is deeply troubling and poses critical questions about operational oversight, maintenance standards, and passenger safety.
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A Timeline of Air India’s Recent Safety Incidents
Aborted Take-Off at Delhi Airport
In June 2025, an Air India flight bound for Bangalore had to abort take-off at Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) due to a technical snag. The aircraft was accelerating on the runway when the pilots detected an issue with engine parameters, prompting an immediate halt. Passengers were safely disembarked, but the psychological impact was profound.
Mumbai Touchdown Engine Damage
Earlier, in May 2025, an Air India flight from Dubai to Mumbai reported a hard landing, resulting in engine scrape marks on the runway and damage to the undercarriage. This incident triggered an emergency protocol and a full investigation by the DGCA, revealing maintenance lapses and a lack of adherence to standard landing procedures.
Series of Technical Malfunctions and Delays
Between January and June 2025, at least six other Air India flights faced mid-air technical issues, including cabin pressure loss, landing gear malfunctions, hydraulic failures, and bird strikes. Several of these led to emergency landings, flight diversions, and delays of over 12 hours, affecting thousands of passengers.
DGCA Issues Nine Notices in Six Months
The DGCA, India’s apex aviation regulatory body, has taken serious note of Air India's repeated violations. According to official records:
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Nine safety-related notices have been issued to Air India between January and June 2025.
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Findings revealed incomplete maintenance documentation, inadequate training of ground staff, and procedural lapses.
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The DGCA has warned of penalties, potential flight restrictions, and license reviews if corrective measures are not implemented immediately.
What Aviation Experts Say About Air India's Safety Culture
Aviation safety expert Captain Mohan Reddy, a retired pilot and aviation consultant, noted,
“Air India is suffering from a systemic safety culture breakdown. The merger with Vistara and privatization transition may have stretched resources, but safety cannot be compromised under any circumstances.”
Another aviation analyst, Ritika Arora, emphasized,
“With increasing competition from Indigo, Akasa Air, and international players, Air India’s operational quality is under the spotlight. These safety concerns can tarnish the brand's global image, especially when it's trying to revive its international routes.”
Passengers Share Frightening Experiences
Multiple passengers who were onboard recent troubled flights shared their traumatic accounts on social media:
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One passenger tweeted:
"Our Delhi-Bangalore flight stopped on the runway so suddenly that people screamed. It was terrifying. We were told nothing for 30 minutes." -
Another user posted:
"My Mumbai landing was the worst I’ve experienced. The aircraft slammed into the tarmac and jolted violently. I won’t fly Air India again."
These viral testimonials have led to a dip in consumer trust, with some frequent fliers opting for alternative carriers.
Why Are These Safety Issues Happening Now?
The root causes of these incidents can be attributed to a combination of factors:
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Rapid Expansion Post-Privatization: Since Tata Group’s takeover, Air India has added new routes and restructured operations. However, this aggressive expansion may be outpacing safety compliance.
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Maintenance Backlogs: The airline inherited aging aircraft and a depleted inventory of spare parts. This has resulted in inconsistent repairs and delays in inspections.
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Human Resource Constraints: Pilots and engineers report increased workloads, delayed wages, and low morale. This can directly impact flight readiness and safety vigilance.
DGCA’s Recommended Corrective Measures
In response to these incidents, the DGCA has issued the following mandates:
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Comprehensive Safety Audit: All Air India aircraft are undergoing a mandatory full inspection.
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Re-training of Crew and Engineers: Staff must complete refresher safety protocols and simulations.
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Increased Surveillance: The DGCA will conduct surprise audits and inspections.
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Passenger Compensation Policy Review: The airline has been asked to ensure timely refunds and communication during disruptions.
Impact on Air India’s Reputation and Market Share
As safety fears grow, Air India’s brand loyalty is taking a hit. Consumer confidence is wavering, particularly in premium markets. Travel booking portals have reported a 15% dip in Air India bookings in June 2025 alone. Meanwhile, rivals like IndiGo, Emirates, and Qatar Airways are gaining traction among both domestic and international travelers.
Air India now faces a dual challenge: restoring operational excellence and rebuilding customer trust.
Conclusion: Is It Safe to Fly Air India Today?
While Air India has historically been a trusted name in Indian aviation, the recent slew of incidents has forced travelers to reconsider. Until all corrective actions are fully implemented, passengers are urged to stay informed and cautious.
However, it's important to note that the aviation industry remains one of the safest forms of transport, provided that safety protocols are strictly followed. With the DGCA actively monitoring the situation and the Tata Group investing in modernization, there is hope that Air India can course-correct and reclaim its lost glory.
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