Air India is under scrutiny once again following issues with its Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The airline operated several flights with documented technical snags, despite restrictions outlined in the aircraft's Minimum Equipment List (MEL). The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a show-cause notice, highlighting concerns over the airline's safety practices.
The DGCA's investigation focused on flights AI358/AU357 between Delhi and Tokyo Haneda. It was reported that the crew was aware of multiple faults prior to flight and still authorized the aircraft to operate. The regulator criticized the crew's apparent lack of understanding of the aircraft's system issues, raising questions about the airline's safety culture.
This incident is part of a series of safety concerns for Air India over the past year. In early December 2025, investigations into an Airbus A320 operating with an expired airworthiness certificate were reported. Additionally, safety audits following a fatal Boeing 787 accident in July 2025 uncovered 51 safety lapses, including the use of unapproved simulators and inadequate crew training.
These recurring safety lapses reflect broader cultural issues within the airline, which has struggled to rebuild its safety reputation amid ongoing negligence. Despite investments in fleet and branding, safety concerns continue to challenge Air India's efforts to improve operational standards.
