Ghatkopar Plane Crash: Need to review aviation firms, flight norms, say netas, experts

The Ghatkopar air crash has cast the spotlight on the regulation, certification and rating of aviation companies and their overall fitness to undertake flights. Sources revealed that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had given its go-ahead for the test flight on Thursday. Yet, questions are being raised whether timely maintenance and thorough checks were done to ensure that the Beechcraft King Air C90 was airworthy.

Local parliamentarian Kirit Somaiya has written to Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu, demanding a stern review of the guidelines that dictate the use of old repaired aircraft.

"How can a plane undergoing a test run after repairs be allowed to fly over such a dense residential zone? Who gave the permission and certification that it was fit to fly?" said Somaiya. He also demanded a review of the rules and guidelines for repair or reconstructed planes.

The plane in question was 22 years old. Experts point out that even 40-year-old flights can be airworthy, and the age of the flight is an overblown criterion.

"The ratings of chartered airlines need to be scrutinised. Certification should be taken seriously and not seen as mere formality. The upkeep of unused as well as operational flights should be regularly done," said Mandar Bharde, MD of MAB Aviation.