Go First: DGCA allows airlines to resume flights, but imposes conditions

Go First resumes operations: Aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has granted its approval for Go First's plan to resume flight operations, subject to certain conditions. In a notification on Friday, the DGCA stated that it has accepted the proposed resumption plan dated June 28, while taking into account pending writ petitions before the Delhi High Court and National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

The DGCA has allowed Go First to restart flight operations on the condition that the airline fulfills all necessary regulatory requirements for holding an Air Operator Certificate. Additionally, the airline must ensure the continued "airworthiness" of its aircraft involved in the operations.

As part of the approval, Go First is required to conduct a satisfactory handling flight before deploying any aircraft for operations. Any changes in the company that could impact the resumption plan submitted by the resolution professional must be promptly communicated to the DGCA.

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The airline, facing financial difficulties, had previously canceled all operations until July 23. This decision followed a special audit conducted by the DGCA to review Go First's flight resumption plan, during which the regulator shared 13 observations regarding the plan.

In response to the DGCA's observation on pilot shortage, Go First's resolution professional, Shailendra Ajmera, submitted a revised plan on July 15. The plan outlined the airline's intention to recommence operations with 15 aircraft, operating 114 daily flights. Ajmera also mentioned that the number of flights would be gradually increased as the airline stabilises operations and successfully recruits additional pilots.

Go First filed for voluntary insolvency on May 2, attributing the grounding of half of its Airbus A320neo fleet to issues with engine maker Pratt & Whitney's faulty engines. Since May 3, the airline has remained inoperative.

With the DGCA's acceptance of Go First's proposed resumption plan, subject to certain conditions and ongoing legal proceedings, there is hope for the airline's revival.

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