The recent tragic crash of an Air India aircraft at Ahmedabad Airport, which resulted in multiple casualties and injuries, has raised serious concerns over aviation safety in India. In response, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture has called a full-day meeting today to examine the current safety protocols and challenges facing the country’s aviation sector.
Chaired by JD(U) MP Sanjay Jha, the committee will bring together key stakeholders including members of both Houses of Parliament, officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Ministry of Civil Aviation, and the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Representatives from major airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, as well as private airport operators including the Adani and GMR groups, will also participate in the discussions. The purpose of this high-level session is to review recent safety lapses, evaluate existing regulations, and explore reforms to prevent future accidents.
India’s aviation sector, one of the fastest-growing globally, transports over 400 million passengers annually. However, rapid expansion has often outpaced the development of safety infrastructure, leading to concerns over maintenance standards and operational oversight. In recent weeks, several incidents including emergency landings, runway skids, and technical issues have drawn attention to potential gaps in safety.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has already submitted its initial report on the Air India AI-171 crash to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, adding urgency to the review. International agencies such as the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) have also raised concerns about India’s compliance with global safety norms, prompting the DGCA to launch audits of airlines and airports.
Many regional airports continue to rely on outdated technology, and efforts are underway to upgrade navigation systems, runway lighting, and air traffic control operations. The government has announced plans to invest over ₹1 lakh crore in airport infrastructure development and modernization over the next five years, emphasizing safety as a top priority.
This upcoming parliamentary meeting highlights the government’s commitment to strengthening aviation safety and ensuring better protection for passengers and crew. The discussions are expected to focus on improving maintenance and inspection routines, enhancing emergency response capabilities, and implementing stricter safety regulations.
As India works to establish itself as a leading global aviation hub, the outcomes of this meeting will be critical in restoring passenger confidence and enhancing oversight in the aviation sector.
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