Air India is currently grappling with operational disruptions linked to a recent fatal plane crash. In the aftermath, the airline has initiated precautionary inspections of its Dreamliner fleet, resulting in numerous flight delays and cancellations, as well as heightened anxiety among passengers.
These safety checks, coupled with the closure of airspace in specific Middle Eastern regions, have significantly impacted Air India’s domestic and international services. To date, the airline has cancelled 83 wide-body flights, including 66 Dreamliners, as reported by India’s aviation safety body, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Despite the airline’s attempt to exceed standard inspection requirements, this has adversely affected its operations, according to a source within the company. Recently, multiple flights were scrapped, including one from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, and another from Delhi to Paris due to emerging concerns during pre-flight checks, though specifics on these issues were not disclosed.
The DGCA has conducted surveillance on Air India’s Dreamliner fleet and reported no significant safety issues thus far. According to their findings, the aircraft and maintenance protocols generally comply with established safety standards. Out of the 33 Dreamliners evaluated, 24 have undergone inspections, while others are either in extended maintenance or slated for checks shortly.
In response to these operational challenges, the DGCA urged Air India to enhance internal coordination across its engineering, operations, and ground handling divisions. They have also recommended ensuring an adequate supply of spare parts to prevent further flight disruptions. Meanwhile, an investigation into the crash is underway by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, with assistance from international agencies including those from the UK and US, as well as Boeing representatives.
Despite the recent setbacks, some aviation experts view the incident as a temporary hurdle for Air India, now under private ownership following its acquisition by Tata Sons in 2022. Jitender Bhargava, a former executive at Air India, maintains that the crash will not derail the company’s ambitious growth plans, emphasising the importance of restoring passenger confidence swiftly.
Since the takeover, Air India has made substantial investments, placing orders for hundreds of new aircraft, revamping its brand image, and initiating extensive upgrades to its fleet and training facilities. This overhaul reflects the airline’s commitment to transforming its operations and achieving financial viability post-privatisation. To thrive and ultimately minimise the impact of this unfortunate accident, it’s crucial for Air India to solidify the confidence of both its employees and its passengers.