Air India Temporarily Grounds Wide-Body Fleet Following Flight AI171 Crash at Ahmedabad to Ensure Passenger Safety

Air India Temporarily Grounds Wide-Body Fleet Following AI171 Crash to Ensure Passenger Safety

June 20, 2025 - In the wake of the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171, the airline has taken a firm stance on passenger safety by temporarily grounding a significant portion of its wide-body aircraft fleet. This decision is a precautionary measure, taken while comprehensive inspections and maintenance checks are underway, to prevent any recurrence of similar incidents.

The AI171 accident, which claimed 241 lives, has cast a shadow over India’s aviation landscape, prompting Air India and aviation regulators to act swiftly. The focus has been on Boeing 787 Dreamliners and other large aircraft that operate long-haul international routes connecting India to Europe, North America, and Asia.

Between June 20 and mid-July, Air India has canceled or rescheduled over 80 flights using wide-body aircraft, impacting passengers across multiple key routes. The airline has committed to proactive communication, ensuring affected travelers receive timely updates, alternative travel options, or full refunds as necessary.

This temporary suspension underscores the airline’s responsibility and determination to rebuild trust with the traveling public. It also aligns with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation’s (DGCA) rigorous oversight and collaboration with aircraft manufacturers and international safety experts.

While these operational changes may cause inconvenience for passengers in the short term, aviation analysts agree that prioritizing safety above all else is essential. Air India’s leadership has emphasized transparency throughout the inspection process, promising that every aircraft will meet the highest safety standards before returning to service.

Passengers with upcoming flights are advised to regularly check official channels for status updates and direct any concerns to Air India’s customer service. The airline’s responsiveness during this period will be critical in maintaining passenger confidence.

As India’s flagship carrier navigates this challenging period, Aviation Buster remains committed to providing accurate and timely information.
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