Post-Flight Checks & Ashy Wrecks: DGCA Takes a Hard Line on Volcanic Threats

Updated: November 24, 2025 21:43

Image Source: Republic World

The DGCA has issued an urgent advisory directing Indian airlines and airports to avoid volcanic ash-affected regions and altitudes, conduct post-flight inspections, and monitor for ash-related damage continuously. Airport operations may be restricted based on contamination, ensuring flight and passenger safety until further updates.

India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has rolled out a critical operational advisory for all Indian airlines and airport operators to mitigate risks posed by recent volcanic ash activity detected in flight regions near Oman and adjoining areas. This comes amid concerns of volcanic ash clouds potentially compromising aircraft safety during flights.

Key highlights:

Navigational and flight safety protocols

Airlines are mandated to avoid flying through altitudes and geographic regions affected by volcanic ash contamination.
Flight crews, including cockpit and cabin staff, alongside dispatchers, must ensure rigorous avoidance of these zones, revising flight planning and routing to incorporate the latest ash advisories.

Post-flight inspections and operational restrictions

Aircraft operating near ash-affected areas must undergo immediate post-flight engine and airframe inspections to detect any damage caused by ash exposure.
Airport authorities are instructed to conduct thorough runway, taxiway, and apron inspections for contamination and may restrict or suspend airport operations pending cleaning and safety clearance.

Continuous monitoring and risk management

DGCA urges airlines to enhance their internal risk management by monitoring engine performance anomalies and tracking any cabin smoke or odors that might indicate ash encounters during flight.
Operators are required to stay updated with frequent volcanic ash advisory bulletins, satellite imagery, and meteorological updates to anticipate ash cloud movements and respond proactively.

Operational and safety compliance

Compliance with aircraft manufacturer guidelines and international volcanic ash safety protocols remains mandatory.
The regulator emphasized the importance of strict adherence to updated operational procedures to safeguard passenger safety and aircraft integrity until further notice.

This advisory highlights India’s proactive stance on aviation safety amid environmental hazards, prioritizing passenger and aircraft protection in volatile atmospheric conditions. The DGCA’s directives ensure heightened vigilance and preparedness across India’s aviation sector during this period of volcanic ash activity.

Sources: DGCA, Hindustan Times, Reuters

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