New Delhi, June 21 -- India's aviation safety watchdog Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered Air India to remove three officials from all roles and responsibilities linked to rostering and crew scheduling after finding serious lapses.

In an order dated June 20, the DGCA further asked the Tata Group-owned airline to initiate proceedings against these three officials without delay.

Air India issued a statement following the order, saying that it had implemented the order of the aviation watchdog.

"In the interim, the company's Chief Operations Officer will provide direct oversight to the Integrated Operations Control Centre (IOCC). Air India is committed to ensuring that there is total adherence to safety protocols and...