Ahmedabad: Air India has released a statement following the crash of flight AI171 in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, which claimed 241 lives, including passengers, crew members, and people on the ground. The airline said it is deeply saddened and stands in complete solidarity with the families of those who lost their lives.
In its statement, Air India described the victims’ families as part of its larger family and said all efforts are being made to support them. With help from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Gujarat government, Air India and Tata Group volunteers are assisting at hospitals in Ahmedabad and helping families with transportation and other needs related to the funeral process.
Air India to reduce international services
on widebody aircraft by 15%
Move to ensure stability of operations, better efficiency and minimise inconvenience to passengersAir India remains in mourning on the tragic loss of 241 passengers and crew members aboard flight AI171. Our…
— Air India (@airindia) June 18, 2025
Enhanced safety measures
The airline confirmed that safety inspections are being carried out on all its Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft. Out of 33 such planes in its fleet, 26 have already been inspected and cleared for flying. The remaining aircraft will be checked in the coming days.
Additionally, Air India will conduct safety checks on its Boeing 777 planes. The airline promised full cooperation with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) to ensure the highest level of safety.
Flight cancellations due to inspections
Apart from safety inspections, external factors like geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and night curfews in European and East Asian airspace have affected operations. Over the past six days, 83 international flights have been cancelled.
To stabilize operations, Air India has announced a temporary 15% cut in its international widebody services. These changes will be in effect until at least mid-July. This move is aimed at avoiding last-minute cancellations and improving efficiency.
Passengers affected by these flight changes will be informed in advance and given the option to reschedule at no extra cost or request a full refund.
Air India admitted that reducing flights is a difficult decision but said it is necessary after such a tragic event. The airline assured passengers and the public that it will rebuild confidence with the support of the people, regulatory authorities, and the government.
“We are still working through this devastating event and taking every step to restore stability and trust in our operations,” the statement said.
