DGCA fines IndiGo Rs 40 lakh for using unqualified simulators in pilot training

The DGCA imposed the fine after its investigation revealed that IndiGo had conducted simulator training for nearly 1,700 pilots - including Captains and First Officers, using devices not certified for operations at Category C airports. These airports, such as Calicut, Leh and Kathmandu are considered among the most challenging in the country due to complex terrain, weather conditions and difficult approach paths.

The regulator imposed two separate fines of Rs 20 lakh each - one on IndiGo's Director of Training and another on its Director of Flight Operations for violating the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) and directives issued under Rule 133A of the Aircraft Rules, 1937.

Simulators used found 'not qualified' for critical airports

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The DGCA's detailed order, listed 20 simulators located across facilities in Chennai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Greater Noida, Gurugram and Hyderabad. These devices belonged to training organisations such as CSTPL, FSTC, ACAT and Airbus, but were found "not qualified for Calicut and/or Leh" even though they were used for training pilots to operate at those airports. Under aviation safety norms, simulator training for such critical airports must be conducted only on equipment specifically certified for the terrain and operational category. Failure to meet these standards can compromise pilot preparedness and flight safety.

Following the findings, the DGCA issued a Show Cause Notice to IndiGo's Director of Training on August 11, 2025, seeking an explanation for the lapses. IndiGo submitted its response on August 22, but the regulator found the reply unsatisfactory.

"You were responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable Civil Aviation Requirements. However, it has been observed that you have failed to ensure the use of appropriately qualified simulators for training related to Class III (critical) airports," the DGCA's order stated.

Citing the seriousness of the violation, the DGCA invoked Rule 162 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 and Schedule VI-B (Severity Level 5) to impose a Rs 20 lakh fine on each of the two designated officials.

DGCA directs IndiGo to comply within 30 days

Separate demand notices have been issued to IndiGo's Director of Training and Director of Flight Operations, directing them to deposit the penalties in the Bharatkosh government account within 30 days. The notices also allow IndiGo to appeal against the decision within the same period by paying a statutory fee of Rs 1,000 to the Joint Director General of Civil Aviation, under Rule 3B of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 and Section 33(1) of the Bharatiya Vayu Yan Adhiniyam, 2024. The DGCA has instructed IndiGo to report payment confirmation within the stipulated period, warning that non-compliance could invite further enforcement action.