DGCA Launches 360-Degree Aviation Safety Audit

In a landmark development for aviation safety in India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a comprehensive special audit under General Safety Circular 01 of 2025. This new initiative is designed to provide a 360-degree evaluation of India's aviation ecosystem, shifting from traditional silo-based oversight to a more integrated, risk-informed, and performance-driven regulatory auditing process.

The special audit encompasses all primary aviation entities, including scheduled, non-scheduled, and private air operators. Additionally, it reviews Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) organizations, Approved and Flying Training Organizations (ATOs and FTOs), Air Navigation Service Providers, Aerodrome Operators, and Ground Handling Agencies. Supporting components such as technology providers, emergency systems, and regulatory coordination bodies are also under scrutiny, ensuring a holistic assessment.

Audits will be conducted by multidisciplinary teams led by senior DGCA officials, with inputs from subject-matter experts. The assessment includes document reviews, on-site inspections, staff interviews, and safety data trend analysis. Findings, classified by severity, require entities to submit corrective action plans within 15 days. Non-compliance may result in penalties, including fines or license suspensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)