Turkey Denies Involvement in Air India Dreamliner Maintenance After Crash

Turkey Refutes Claims of Involvement in Air India Dreamliner Maintenance

Official Denial Amidst Ongoing Crash Investigation

The Turkish government has categorically denied any role in the maintenance of the Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that crashed during take-off, addressing widespread speculation following the tragic incident. In a formal statement issued by the Republic of Türkiye Directorate of Communications Center for Countering Disinformation, officials clarified that Turkish Technic, the nation’s premier aviation maintenance provider, has never serviced this particular aircraft model for Air India.

The statement explicitly refuted claims that Turkish Technic was responsible for the maintenance of the Boeing 787-8, emphasizing that existing contracts between Air India and Turkish Technic for 2024 and 2025 pertain exclusively to Boeing 777 wide-body aircraft. “To date, Turkish Technic has not conducted maintenance on any Air India aircraft of this type,” the statement affirmed, underscoring the company’s limited scope of work with the airline.

Broader Implications and Industry Reactions

The denial arrives as investigators continue to examine the causes of the crash, an event that has intensified scrutiny of aviation safety and maintenance standards worldwide. The incident carries significant repercussions not only for Air India but also for Boeing, which is already confronting a broader safety crisis. In the wake of the crash, Boeing’s stock experienced a notable decline, reflecting investor concerns about the manufacturer’s reputation and the potential impact on future aircraft deliveries.

For Air India, the crash presents a formidable challenge amid its ongoing efforts to reinvent and expand its operations. The absence of immediate answers has prompted calls from various stakeholders for a comprehensive and transparent investigation, highlighting the critical need for stringent oversight in aviation safety protocols.

Diplomatic Tensions and Strategic Shifts in Maintenance Partnerships

Complicating the situation are strained diplomatic relations between India and Turkey, which have deteriorated following Turkey’s support for Pakistan in response to India’s Operation Sindoor targeting terror infrastructure across the border. This geopolitical tension has led several Indian companies to sever business ties with Turkish firms. In this context, Air India recently announced plans to reduce its dependence on Turkish Technic for wide-body aircraft maintenance, opting instead to engage alternative Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) providers. CEO Campbell Wilson described this strategic shift as an effort to optimize maintenance operations and improve overall efficiency.

Despite the controversy, Turkish Technic continues to perform heavy maintenance on a segment of Air India’s Boeing 777 and 787 fleet. Both the Turkish government and Turkish Technic have reiterated their commitment to transparency and cooperation with international aviation authorities, affirming their dedication to maintaining the highest standards of safety and maintenance.

As the investigation progresses, the aviation industry remains vigilant, with all parties stressing the importance of clear communication and rigorous safety measures to restore confidence among passengers and investors alike.