SpiceJet under enhanced surveillance again following DGCA audit revealing deficiencies

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has once again placed SpiceJet under "enhanced surveillance" due to operational and financial concerns. This action follows a special audit that uncovered several deficiencies, leading to increased spot checks and night surveillance to ensure the airline's operational safety.

SpiceJet, which has been experiencing financial difficulties, is now subject to this intensified scrutiny immediately. The DGCA's decision comes after multiple reports of flight cancellations and ongoing financial stress within the airline. Additionally, recent incidents at Dubai airport, where passengers were prevented from boarding due to unpaid dues, have exacerbated the situation.

DGCA's Statement:

The DGCA conducted a special audit of SpiceJet’s engineering facilities on August 7th and 8th, 2024, uncovering significant deficiencies. The audit was prompted by reports of flight cancellations and the airline's financial instability.

The DGCA's statement highlighted SpiceJet's history of operational challenges, noting previous instances of enhanced surveillance. In 2022, after a series of operational incidents, the airline was allowed to release aircraft only after ensuring all defects were rectified. Again, in 2023, SpiceJet was placed under enhanced surveillance due to financial issues.

Given this history and the findings of the recent audit, the DGCA has mandated an immediate increase in spot checks and night surveillance to safeguard the airline’s operations.

Recent Incidents:

The situation has been further complicated by incidents at Dubai airport. Passengers were barred from boarding SpiceJet flights due to the airline’s unpaid dues. This was the second such incident within a month, with reports indicating that SpiceJet had to operate several empty flights from Dubai as a result.

The ongoing financial troubles and operational challenges have led to heightened scrutiny from the DGCA to ensure passenger safety and compliance with aviation regulations.

SpiceJet’s current enhanced surveillance status underscores the need for stringent safety and financial oversight in the aviation industry. The DGCA’s actions aim to mitigate risks and ensure the airline meets all necessary operational standards.