DGCA Initiates Probe After IndiGo Flight Takes Off Without ATC Clearance: Report (Photo by Izdhan Imran on Unsplash)

Pilots of an IndiGo flight from Delhi to Baku were reportedly suspended after it was found that they took off the flight without necessary clearance from the air traffic controller (ATC). Moneycontrol reported that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is investigating the matter.

As per the report, the aviation regulator has initiated the probe into IndiGo”s flight 6E-1803 Delhi-Baku, which took off on January 28. Officials reportedly said that the flight took off without the required air traffic control (ATC) clearance. “With reference to reports around IndiGo flight 6E 1803 operating between Delhi and Baku on Jan 28, 2024, the incident is currently under investigation,” said IndiGo in a statement as quoted by Moneycontrol. The airline also added that appropriate action will be taken on this matter.

According to the US Federal Aviation Administration, an ATC clearance is for the purpose of preventing collisions between known aircraft and allowing an aircraft to proceed under specified conditions within controlled airspace.

Recently, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) imposed a fine of Rs 1.2 crore on IndiGo Airlines. The airline was asked to pay the fine over the incident where passengers sat on the tarmac and ate food while waiting for their delayed flight. The regulator also slapped a fine on Mumbai airport operator MIAL for this security violation.