As of now, there are 56 Boeing 737 Max aircraft registered and operational in India. The distribution among airlines is as follows:
1. Air India Express: 25 aircraft
2. SpiceJet Ltd.: 7 aircraft
3. SNV Aviation Pvt. Ltd. (Akasa Air): 24 aircraft
Recently, no engine failures have been reported by Indian operators for the Boeing 737 Max. However, in May 2024, a SpiceJet Boeing 737 Max experienced an oil filter bypass light activation on engine number 2. The pilot executed a precautionary single-engine landing, and the aircraft landed safely without any reported discomfort to passengers or crew.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ensures aviation safety through various inspections, audits, spot checks, and night surveillance. In case of serious lapses or non-compliances, DGCA enforces actions as per its Enforcement Policy and Procedure Manual (EPPM), which may include suspensions, cancellations, and financial penalties.
The DGCA publishes its Annual Surveillance Plan (ASP) on its website, detailing planned surveillance activities for the year. Through this surveillance system, the DGCA ensures ongoing regulatory compliance by airlines and maintenance organizations. In cases of non-compliance, corrective actions are mandated, and enforcement actions may be taken, which could include warnings, suspensions, or cancellations of approvals, certificates, or licenses, along with financial penalties.
This information was provided by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Shri Murlidhar Mohol, in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha today.
