IndiGo, a prominent low-cost carrier, is facing a hefty fine of ₹1.2 crore from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) following the circulation of a viral video depicting passengers eating on the tarmac while waiting for a delayed flight. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the country's aviation regulator, also took note of the video and directed Mumbai Airport to pay ₹30 lakh for the violation.
The incident led to show-cause notices being issued to both IndiGo and Mumbai Airport by the Centre on Tuesday. The BCAS stated that IndiGo is required to pay the imposed penalty, the highest in recent times, within 30 days. The DGCA termed the incident a "violation of apron discipline" and expressed concern over passengers being on the apron for an extended period at Mumbai's CSMI Airport.
According to the DGCA, this contravened its Air Safety circular of 2007, which prohibits any activity on an active apron to ensure passenger and aircraft safety. The DGCA found Mumbai Airport's response unsatisfactory, indicating a failure to adhere to safety requirements. As a consequence, the regulator imposed a penalty of ₹30 lakh on Mumbai Airport under relevant regulations.
In a parallel development, Air India and SpiceJet also faced fines for inadequate preparedness leading to fog-related delays. Both airlines were fined ₹30 lakh each for violating and non-complying with Aircraft Rules, 1937. The DGCA conducts pre-fog season meetings with airline and aerodrome operators to assess low visibility operations preparedness. However, SpiceJet and Air India failed to roster CAT II/III and LVTO-qualified pilots, violating the DGCA's directives.
Fog-related disruptions during the winter season took an extraordinary turn this year, with social media showcasing passengers sitting on the tarmac, enjoying meals next to aircraft. In a video that garnered attention, passengers of an IndiGo Goa-Delhi flight, diverted to Mumbai due to low visibility in Delhi, were seen sitting near the aircraft, having meals on the tarmac.
IndiGo responded to the incident, apologizing to customers and pledging to investigate the matter. The airline assured necessary steps would be taken to prevent such incidents in the future. The episode has sparked scrutiny of safety protocols and operational preparedness within the aviation industry, raising questions about compliance with regulatory directives and ensuring passenger well-being during adverse weather conditions.