Following the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash, Air India is mourning the loss of 241 passengers and crew members on flight AI171.
The airline has called it a loss to its own family and expressed deep support for the victims’ families, stating that they are part of its extended family.
As a precautionary step, Air India has now announced a 15% reduction in major international flights operated by wide-body aircraft.
Safety Checks on Air India Fleet
The investigation into the crash is ongoing. As part of this, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched ‘Enhanced Safety Inspections’ on Air India’s Boeing 787-8/9 aircraft.
Air India owns 33 of these planes. So far, 26 have been inspected and found safe for operation. The remaining aircraft will be checked in the next few days.
Additional safety inspections are also being carried out on Air India’s Boeing 777 aircraft. The airline has assured that passenger, crew, and aircraft safety is its top priority.
It is fully cooperating with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), DGCA, and the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
15% Cut in International Flights
Due to ongoing global issues such as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, night curfews in parts of Europe and East Asia, and mandatory safety checks, Air India has had to cancel 83 international flights in the past six days.
Given these conditions, Air India has decided to reduce international flights operated by wide-body aircraft by 15% from June 20 to mid-July.
Why Was This Step Taken?
Air India says the aim is to stabilize operations, better manage its resources, and reduce trouble for passengers.
Affected customers will be adjusted on other flights or their tickets will be reissued at no extra cost. A full refund option will also be available to those who request it.
The airline clarified that this is only a temporary step and normal services will resume once the situation improves.
Air India is confident that, with the support of passengers, the government, and the public, it will recover from this tragedy and restore trust in its service.
Frontline Support for Victims’ Families
With the help of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Gujarat Government, Air India is doing everything possible to assist the families of those who died.
Volunteers from Air India and Tata Group have been sent to Ahmedabad to help victims’ families in hospitals and assist with arrangements to bring the bodies home.
