India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), will conduct 15 percent more safety checks in 2025 compared to the previous year. Surveillance activities will rise from 4,027 in 2024 to 4,630 this year. The decision follows the Air India Boeing 787 crash near Ahmedabad in June 2025 that killed 260 people.
Focus Areas for Checks
The DGCA said inspections will focus on aircraft maintenance, pilot performance, and airport safety. Authorities have reported increasing incidents involving mid-air collision risks, runway incursions, and wildlife strikes. In 2024, regulators logged 3,540 safety-related cases, including 44 near-miss collisions. By May 2025, 1,275 incidents were already recorded.
Measures for Air India
Air India’s Boeing 787 and 777 fleets will face enhanced inspections. The regulator has also imposed a temporary cut in Air India’s international operations to ensure compliance. The airline has been directed to strengthen internal systems while extending support to families impacted by the crash.
Strengthening Indian Aviation Safety
Officials said the increased checks form part of a broader effort to raise aviation safety standards in India. The DGCA is coordinating with both domestic carriers and global aviation bodies to align with international protocols. Authorities believe the additional inspections will help reduce risks and restore public confidence after one of India’s worst aviation tragedies.
