SpiceJet Placed Under Enhanced DGCA Surveillance Amid Financial Struggles

New Delhi: SpiceJet, the cash-strapped Indian airline, has been placed under “enhanced surveillance” by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This move follows a special audit conducted on August 7 and 8, 2024, which uncovered several deficiencies in the airline’s engineering operations.

Special Audit Uncovers Deficiencies

The DGCA’s decision to increase oversight comes after reports of flight cancellations and the airline’s ongoing financial difficulties. In a statement released on Thursday, the aviation regulator highlighted the findings of the recent audit, which was prompted by concerns over the airline’s engineering facilities and overall operational stability.

“Based on reports of cancellation of flights and financial stress being experienced by SpiceJet Airlines, a special audit of SpiceJet engineering facilities was conducted on August 7th and 8th, 2024, which revealed certain deficiencies,” the DGCA said.

Mounting Operational Challenges

The announcement of enhanced surveillance came on the heels of additional operational troubles for SpiceJet. On the same day, Dubai Airport once again halted the boarding of SpiceJet flights due to outstanding dues. Furthermore, some of the airline’s flights bound for Dubai were unable to overfly Pakistan due to unpaid overflying charges.

History of Increased Scrutiny

This isn’t the first time SpiceJet has faced increased scrutiny from the DGCA. In 2022, the airline was subjected to a series of spot checks after multiple incidents involving its fleet were reported. As a result, SpiceJet was required to obtain clearance from the DGCA before releasing any aircraft for operations. The airline was once again placed under enhanced surveillance in 2023 due to ongoing financial stress.

Enhanced Surveillance Measures

“In light of the past record and the special audit carried out in August 2024, SpiceJet has once again been placed under enhanced surveillance with immediate effect. This would entail an increase in the number of spot checks and night surveillance with a view to ensure the safety of operations,” the DGCA added.

The DGCA’s enhanced surveillance is expected to include more frequent inspections and stringent oversight to ensure that SpiceJet adheres to safety standards and rectifies the deficiencies identified during the audit. As SpiceJet navigates through its financial and operational challenges, the airline’s ability to comply with regulatory requirements will be closely monitored.