DGCA launches comprehensive audit to enhance aviation safety

23 Jun 2025 GS 2 Governance
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DGCA's Comprehensive Safety Audit

  1. Initiative Launched by: Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India.

  2. Purpose: To conduct a holistic evaluation of the aviation sector focusing on:

    • Safety

    • Operational efficiency

    • Regulatory compliance

  3. Need for Change: Previous audits were siloed across different directorates (e.g., spot checks, ramp inspections) with fragmented oversight.

  4. Paradigm Shift:

    • New Comprehensive Special Audit aims for an integrated, 360-degree review of the aviation ecosystem.

    • Focus areas: Safety Management Systems (SMS), operational practices, regulatory adherence.

  5. Audit Framework:

    • Led by a senior DGCA official.

    • Multidisciplinary teams comprising experts from various directorates (Flight Standards, Airworthiness, Licensing, etc.).

    • Surprise inspections or special audits when needed.

  6. Audit Techniques:

    • Document and record reviews

    • On-site inspections

    • Interviews with staff

    • Simulation and training checks

    • Safety data trend analysis

  7. Triggers for Special Audits:

    • Critical safety events (e.g., accidents)

    • Persistent regulatory non-compliance

    • Major operational disruptions

  8. Objective: Align with ICAO SARPs and India’s national aviation safety goals; reinforce India’s commitment to a world-class aviation system.

MCQs 

Q1. With reference to the DGCA’s newly introduced “Comprehensive Safety Audit,” consider the following statements:

  1. It aims to replace all periodic inspections and ramp checks currently performed by individual directorates.

  2. It focuses on a 360-degree review of the aviation sector by evaluating Safety Management Systems and regulatory adherence across domains.

  3. It will be conducted only in the aftermath of major air accidents or incidents.

  4. It seeks to align India’s aviation safety ecosystem with the Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) of the ICAO.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1, 2 and 3 only
D. 2, 3 and 4 only

Answer: B

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is incorrect: Traditional inspections are not replaced, but complemented by this comprehensive audit.

  • Statement 2 is correct: The audit provides a 360-degree evaluation across domains.

  • Statement 3 is incorrect: Audits can also be triggered by non-compliance or operational disruptions, not only accidents.

  • Statement 4 is correct: One goal is alignment with ICAO SARPs.



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