Airlines

Air India Dismisses Pilot Caught Drunk After Operating International Flight

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Air India has taken decisive action, terminating the employment of a pilot who was found intoxicated after piloting an international flight from Phuket to India.

The incident, which occurred on a flight bound for Delhi, underscores the airline’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism. Following the flight’s arrival in India, the pilot underwent a breathalyzer test, revealing a positive result for alcohol consumption. This violation of Air India’s strict zero-tolerance policy regarding alcohol consumption by flight crew, particularly during flight operations, prompted immediate disciplinary action.

Reports from TOI, the airline disclosed that in addition to the pilot’s dismissal, Air India is contemplating filing a First Information Report (FIR) due to the gravity of the situation. Flying under the influence of alcohol is not only a breach of airline regulations but also constitutes a criminal offense, as per aviation laws.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been apprised of the incident, highlighting the seriousness with which regulatory authorities view such infractions. The safety and well-being of passengers and crew are paramount concerns for Air India and the broader aviation industry.

Unlike domestic flights within India, where alcohol is not served or available, international flights often offer alcoholic beverages to passengers. Consequently, post-flight breathalyzer tests for flight crew serve as a crucial measure to uphold safety standards.

Penalties for failing these tests are severe, ranging from license suspensions to permanent revocation for repeat offenders. The pilot involved in this incident was reportedly undergoing a training flight with a newly-appointed captain, adding another layer of concern to the situation. Air India’s swift and decisive action in dismissing the intoxicated pilot underscores its firm stance against jeopardizing the safety of its passengers and crew.

Airlines

Air India to Launch aircraft maintenance training institute in Bengaluru

Air India, one of India’s leading global airlines, is set to establish a Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) in Bengaluru.

This institute will offer a comprehensive Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The program will follow an integrated 2+2 year structure, combining classroom learning with practical, hands-on training.

This initiative is part of Air India’s broader goal of creating a robust aviation ecosystem in India. With plans to expand its fleet and strengthen its operations, the airline aims to build a skilled workforce of maintenance engineers, making the organization self-reliant while supporting its ambitious transformation journey.

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To bring this vision to life, air india has partnered with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), a subsidiary of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). Together, they will develop a state-of-the-art facility spanning 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City.

This purpose-built campus will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and qualified trainers to deliver world-class education and training. The institute is expected to become operational by mid-2026.

The BMTO will be located close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, also set to open in Bengaluru by early 2026. The AME program will begin with two years of academic coursework, followed by two years of practical training at the MRO, ensuring students receive hands-on experience adhering to industry standards.

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In the meantime, Air India has introduced a Cadet AME program in collaboration with reputable institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

This ensures continuity in its commitment to developing skilled aircraft maintenance engineers while the BMTO facility is under construction. The program also allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree through university partnerships, enhancing their career and academic opportunities.

With this initiative, air india plane aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in aircraft maintenance and engineering, air india new planes contributing to the development of India’s aviation sector and creating specialized career paths for aspiring engineers.