Taking note of reports from Afghanistan that the three planes presented by Air India to Ariana have been causing frequent technical problems, New Delhi sent a team of experts recently to have the matter examined and then submit a report. While the team has returned, it is yet to finalise its official report.A team of engineering experts from Indian Airlines visited Kabul recently and examined the three Airbus 300s, which had been donated amid much fanfare after the new administration took over in Afghanistan. However, sources said, the snags being reported are all maintenance-related and only underlines the need for the airline to set up a well-oiled workshop with the necessary facilities for the purpose.Officials clarified that the three planes are still airworthy but are due for some routine maintenance checks. It was suggested to Afghan authorities that they could consider sending the aircraft to Mumbai for checks at IA’s Airbus 300 workshop there.The planes were originally part of A-I’s fleet. But A-I has done away with its Airbus 300 fleet. Its engineering outfit has accordingly undergone a transition with the technical staff trained to attend to the requirements of its existing fleet. As a result, IA — which operates an Airbus 300 workshop — was asked to examine the aircraft.
