In a statement, the airline said, “Air India remains unwavering in its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of operational integrity and safety, and any deviation from mandated compliance protocols is treated with the utmost seriousness and is unacceptable to the organisation.”

The airline added that as soon as the issue was noticed, it was immediately reported to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). All personnel involved in the decision to operate the aircraft have been suspended pending further review.

“We have initiated a comprehensive internal investigation and are fully cooperating with the regulator,” an Air India spokesperson said.