DGCA Flagged Safety Issues With Tecnam Aircraft Months Before Fatal Kanpur Crash

Aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had flagged safety issues concerning Tecnam aircraft over a month before a twin-engine Tecnam P2006T training aircraft crashed in Kanpur on August 27, 2026. The fatal crash, which occurred shortly after takeoff from the Garg Aviation Training Center, claimed the lives of flight instructor Sachin Bhatia and trainee pilot Abhishek Pujari.

According to official communications reviewed by PTI, the DGCA had at least twice since 2025 raised concerns over Tecnam planes with flying training organisations (FTOs). The aircraft are primarily used in India for flying training. The latest communication, dated July 10, 2026, circulated safety recommendations issued by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) following the May 12, 2022 crash of a Tecnam P2006T operated by FSTC Flying School Pvt Ltd at Bhiwani in Haryana.

In the July email, the regulator advised FTOs to avoid parking Tecnam aircraft on the tarmac or apron for prolonged periods during the summer season prior to training flights. The DGCA also emphasized that check-lists should be revised to explicitly incorporate all Original Equipment Manufacturer recommended actions for handling emergency situations, particularly during critical phases of flight.

An earlier communication had sought feedback from FTOs on the operational performance of General Aviation Tecnam aircraft, followed by a reminder sent on August 4, 2025. Industry participants have noted that while Tecnam aircraft have gained popularity due to affordability compared to traditional models like Diamond and Cessna, operational risks and maintenance considerations remain a point of discussion among instructors.

Following the Kanpur accident, the Ministry of Civil Aviation stated that the AAIB will conduct a detailed investigation into the crash. A three-member DGCA team has also been deployed to provide regulatory oversight and coordination. The probe will examine maintenance and airworthiness records, flying hours, aircraft age, and engine operating limits to determine whether technical or human factors contributed to the incident. Garg Aviation previously stated that the aircraft had no maintenance-related deficiencies.

"This incident highlights the critical importance of strictly adhering to regulatory safety advisories and maintenance protocols, particularly within training and aviation operations. For businesses operating in specialized sectors like aviation, risk management, rigorous equipment assessment, and prompt compliance with safety recommendations are essential to safeguarding human lives and maintaining operational integrity." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes