CBI Arrests Chennai DGCA Deputy Director and Aviation Firm Head in Bribery Case

The Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested Sushil Kumar Garg, deputy director of airworthiness at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation in Chennai, alongside Sachin Keshav Bhane, director of Salem-based Ekvi Air Training Organisation Pvt Ltd, in an alleged bribery case.

According to the agency, a case was registered against Garg, Bhane, the aviation company, and others over the alleged demand and acceptance of illegal gratification. The funds were allegedly sought to extend undue favours concerning the airworthiness certification of aircraft operated by the firm.

Investigators stated that Garg allegedly accepted Rs 2.5 lakh as illegal gratification. The CBI initiated action after receiving specific inputs regarding the demand for bribes, which prompted officials to register a formal First Information Report.

Ekvi Air Training Organisation, which operates out of Salem, provides training for aspirants seeking to obtain commercial pilot licences. The company maintains an active fleet of seven training aircraft, including Cessna 152, Cessna 172, DA42, and Tecnam P2006T models, all of which are used for instructional flight purposes.

Both Garg and Bhane have been taken into custody by the central agency following the operation. The CBI is currently seeking further legal custody of the two accused individuals to carry out detailed questioning in connection with the investigation.