Passenger's death on Air India: DGCA accuses the airline of violating rules

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India has initiated an investigation into the death of an 80-year-old passenger who passed away on an Air India flight from New York to Mumbai. The DGCA has issued a notice to the airline regarding the cause of death.

On February 12, 2024, a man traveling on AI 116 collapsed and died at Mumbai airport after walking 1.5 kilometers from the aircraft to the immigration desk. According to Simple Flying, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India has accused Air India of not adhering to regulations.

Reports indicate that the passenger and his wife requested wheelchairs, but they were not provided. Allegedly, Air India instructed the man to wait for a wheelchair to become available, but he chose to walk instead.

The DGCA accused Air India of violating the Aviation Regulations of 1937, specifically clause 4.1.7 of the Civil Aviation Regulations (CAR), which mandates airlines to offer assistance to passengers in need.

The DGCA not only issued a notice to Air India but also urged all airlines to ensure the availability of wheelchairs for passengers requiring assistance.

Air India is required to respond within 7 days.