Air India CEO Says Ahmedabad Crash Aircraft and Engines Had No Pre-Flight Issues

Air India CEO Affirms No Pre-Flight Issues in Ahmedabad Crash Aircraft and Engines

Aircraft Maintenance and Safety Inspections

NEW DELHI — Air India CEO Campbell Wilson has confirmed that the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner involved in the tragic June 12 crash near Ahmedabad was “well maintained,” with no pre-flight issues detected in either the aircraft or its engines. The accident resulted in the loss of 241 passengers and crew members, as well as 34 individuals on the ground. In response, the airline has introduced enhanced safety protocols across its Boeing 787 fleet.

Wilson detailed that the aircraft underwent its last major maintenance check in June 2023, with the next scheduled for December 2025. The right engine received a full overhaul in March 2025, while the left engine was inspected in April 2025. “Both the aircraft and engines were regularly monitored, showing no issues before the flight,” he emphasized in a message to passengers.

Following the crash, Air India initiated comprehensive pre-flight safety inspections for all Boeing 787 aircraft, in line with a directive issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on June 14. As of Thursday, 26 out of the 33 Boeing 787s in the airline’s fleet have completed these inspections and been cleared for service. The remaining aircraft are undergoing scheduled maintenance and will return to operation only after additional safety reviews. The DGCA has since confirmed that Air India’s Boeing 787 fleet and maintenance processes fully comply with established safety standards.

Operational Impact and Industry Response

The incident has presented significant challenges for Air India, including managing increased passenger anxiety, conducting thorough safety inspections, and sustaining operational momentum amid its ongoing Vihaan.AI transformation program. As a precaution, the airline has temporarily reduced its widebody operations by 15 percent, resulting in notable disruptions, flight cancellations, and delays, particularly affecting routes served by the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Competitors have responded swiftly, seeking to capitalize on Air India’s operational difficulties.

Despite these pressures, Air India has prioritized transparent communication and compensation efforts to support affected passengers and families. These measures aim to mitigate reputational damage and maintain confidence in India’s aviation sector.

Expressing profound sorrow over the tragedy, Wilson stated, “We are reaching out with heavy hearts following the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 on June 12, 2025. Words cannot express the pain we feel for the families and loved ones affected by this devastating event.”

The airline continues to collaborate closely with regulators and industry partners as investigations proceed, reaffirming its commitment to safety and the well-being of its passengers and crew.