Overview
- Notices reference flights AI-357 (Delhi–Tokyo) and AI-358 (Tokyo–Delhi) after similar snags were logged across five earlier sectors.
- DGCA alleges dispatch with incompatible Minimum Equipment List items and cites a June 28, 2025 breach of MEL 'O' conditions for the lower-right recirculation fan.
- During AI-358, crews saw PACK ACM L and Pack Mode advisories, and a smell of smoke was reported near the R2 door.
- The regulator questions pilots’ acceptance of the aircraft despite known defects and says the crew did not assess combined impacts of multiple inoperative systems as required by CAR.
- Multiple outlets report four pilots received notices—named as Nishant Tholia, Rishi Kumar Badole, Arun Mehra and Priyank Bainsla—while Air India has not offered a substantive public comment.