DGCA seeks explanation from AI for operating Dreamliner despite problems

According to sources, aviation watchdog DGCA has repeatedly sought clarification from Air India for operating the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner despite technical glitches.

In a show cause notice issued this week, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has highlighted problems related to the Dreamliner VT-ANI.

The notice also mentioned non-compliance of Minimum Equipment List (MEL) for the flight operated on June 28 this year.

According to sources, the regulator has identified that there were safety concerns related to aircraft dispatch, MEL compliance and flight crew decision-making during the operations of flights AI 258 and AI 357.

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Although information regarding the dates of operation of these flights was not immediately available, these flights operate on the Delhi-Tokyo route.

Among other aspects, the regulator noted that the plane was operated despite prior knowledge of recurring malfunctions and malfunctions in existing systems, the sources said.

There was no comment from Air India.

It was also not immediately clear whether aircraft VT-ANI is now out of operation.