DGCA's Stern Warning to Akasa Airlines

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has recently issued a warning letter to Akasa Airlines due to significant non-compliances found during an annual surveillance inspection at Ahmedabad on December 12, 2024. The inspection revealed several lapses in the carriage of dangerous goods, including the unchecked acceptance of electronic devices containing lithium batteries and shipments of lithium batteries exceeding permissible weight limits for passenger aircraft.

Corrective Measures Taken by Akasa

In response to the DGCA's findings, Akasa Airlines submitted an action taken report on December 20 and 23, admitting to the violations and lapses. The airline has initiated corrective actions by issuing circulars to trade partners and staff to ensure compliance with regulations and caution letters to the cargo acceptance staff. The DGCA has emphasized the importance of vigilance and compliance with regulatory provisions for the carriage of dangerous goods by air to prevent future occurrences.

Regulatory Actions and Future Steps

This warning follows a series of actions taken by the DGCA against Akasa Airlines, including the suspension of its director training and director operations for six months each last month. The DGCA has advised the airline to nominate suitable candidates for these crucial positions to address the repeated lapses and violations in training. Akasa Airlines is also required to submit a report to the DGCA after conducting internal audits at all cargo acceptance and handling facilities within 30 days of receiving the warning letter.