India’s largest airline, IndiGo, has been hit with a ₹20 lakh penalty by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) due to alleged lapses in pilot training at Category C aerodromes, airports that are considered more challenging because of short runways, difficult terrain, or complex operational conditions. These airports require pilots to have specialised training to ensure passenger safety, making the regulator’s concern a serious matter.
IndiGo Fined ₹20 Lakh By DGCA For Pilot Training Lapses
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) imposed a ₹20 lakh penalty on IndiGo Airlines, The Economic Times reported. The issue, according to DGCA, relates to training sessions held for pilots at Category C aerodromes, airports known for their challenging runways and complex terrain, such as Leh, Port Blair, and Mangalore. These airports require pilots to undergo special simulator training before operating flights there.
The DGCA stated that IndiGo did not use qualified simulators for part of this training, which goes against mandatory aviation safety rules. Such simulators play a crucial role in ensuring that pilots are well-prepared for difficult flying conditions and can safely operate in tricky airports.
IndiGo, however, has pushed back against the penalty. According to The Economic Times reports, the airline said it plans to contest the DGCA’s order before the appropriate appellate authority. The company clarified that the penalty will not affect its financial health, operations, or other business activities, and described the issue as one that does not have any material impact on its day-to-day functioning.
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Airline Responds With Appeal
Additionally, the airline addressed the unintended delay in announcing the penalty to the public. The airline has revealed that even though the order was received on September 26, 2025, a delay in internal communication caused the disclosure to be delayed, as per The Economic Times reports.
When it comes to implementing safety procedures, DGCA is strict. This incident shows that everything is closely monitored by the aviation watchdog, including pilot training and operational standards. IndiGo and other airlines are now under increased pressure to follow the most stringent rules after the DGCA recently expanded its jurisdiction to guarantee passenger safety.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/Paul Spijkers
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