The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India has launched a comprehensive investigation following the sudden death of the 35-year-old pilot of an Air India Express (IX) flight operating from Srinagar (SXR) to Delhi (DEL).
The investigation was initiated amidst growing concerns within the industry regarding pilot health, flight safety, and emergency intervention protocols.
DGCA Forms Six-Month Investigation Panel
DGCA Chairman Faiz Ahmed Kidwai has ordered the formation of a special investigation panel to examine all aspects of the incident.
The investigation will be led by Deputy Director of Air Safety Vishal Yadav and Group Captain Murtaza, an expert in the field. The team has been asked to submit their report within six months, focusing on the following areas:
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Whether the pilot reported any discomfort to air traffic control during the flight
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The adequacy of ATC intervention
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A detailed review of the pilot’s medical history
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Whether health conditions were considered in the crew planning
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The preparedness of the airport medical center for emergencies
The DGCA directive also specifies that the investigation will look into whether pilots with medical restrictions should be subjected to special health checks before flights.
Tragic Incident: Pilot Suffered Heart Attack After Flight
Captain Armaan, who transferred from SpiceJet to Air India Express in 2023, suffered a sudden heart attack after successfully landing the IX-1153 flight to Delhi on April 9, 2025.
According to reports, the pilot, who felt unwell in the aircraft’s restroom, later collapsed in the forward galley area. After initial intervention, he was transferred to the airport medical center and then to a private hospital in Vasant Kunj, but he could not be saved.
Pilot Association’s Reaction: “Human-Centered Flight Planning Is Essential”
The Airline Pilots Association of India (ALPA), which represents over 800 pilots, issued a statement after the incident, urging airlines to prioritize rest periods, safety, and human-centered practices in flight planning.
The association also highlighted the urgent need for accessible and stigma-free mental health support systems within the aviation industry.
Flight Duty Time Limitations Under Discussion
Although Armaan’s death was not directly linked to pilot fatigue, many pilots in the industry have long expressed concerns over working conditions.
New Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) rules, covering flight hours, rest intervals, and nighttime flights, are expected to be implemented this summer after being delayed for years.
A senior pilot stated: “In recent years, especially after the COVID period, we’ve lost many pilots to sudden deaths. Our fight for humane FDTL practices continues. The foundation of safe flights lies in well-rested pilots who are not under stress.”
