Go First Set to Take Off Again After Regulatory Approval and Audit

After a prolonged suspension of operations, Go First is gearing up to resume its flights. The airline has received the green light from local regulators, thanks to a comprehensive audit conducted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). According to an official announcement on July 21, 2023, Go First successfully addressed the identified issues during a special audit that took place at its facilities in Mumbai and Delhi, India, from July 4 to July 6, 2023.

While the DGCA’s approval is a significant milestone, Go First’s return to the skies hinges on obtaining approval from both Delhi’s High Court and the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). Should these juridical institutions give the green light, the low-cost carrier plans to operate an impressive 114 daily flights with a fleet comprising 15 aircraft.

The DGCA has laid out strict directives for Go First to comply with all applicable regulatory requirements. The airline is tasked with ensuring the continued airworthiness of its aircraft used for operations and conducting satisfactory handling flights before deploying them for commercial service.

Go First’s operational setback occurred on May 2, 2023, when it suspended commercial operations, citing unreliable engines supplied by Pratt & Whitney, which severely impacted their ability to serve customers efficiently.

During the voluntary suspension, aircraft lessors sought to have their planes deregistered from Go First’s fleet. However, as of now, the Indian authority’s page still displays Go First’s Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) with a total of 54 aircraft assigned to the airline, comprising five Airbus A320ceos and 49 A320neos.

Data from ch-aviation.com indicates that Go First maintains its fleet of 54 aircraft, with an additional 72 orders in the pipeline. All 54 aircraft are currently leased, with China Development Bank (CDB) Leasing holding the highest exposure, providing 11 Airbus A320neos to the airline.

Notably, all of Go First’s aircraft are powered by the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engine. As the airline awaits the crucial approvals, aviation enthusiasts and passengers eagerly anticipate Go First’s return to the skies.