Air India has initiated a comprehensive Air India safety check on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet following a directive from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The inspection order follows the recent crash of Flight AI 171 from Ahmedabad to London.
In an official statement on the social media platform X, the airline confirmed that nine Dreamliners have already completed the Air India safety check, with the remaining 24 aircraft scheduled for inspection within the regulator’s mandated timeline.
“Air India is in the process of completing the one-time safety checks directed by the Indian aviation regulator, DGCA. These checks are being carried out on the Boeing 787 fleet as they return to India, before being cleared for their next operations,” the airline noted.
The DGCA’s urgent safety directive applies to all Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft powered by Genx engines, following the tragic crash that raised concerns about fleet-wide operational integrity. The Air India safety check involves detailed inspections of critical systems, including fuel systems, cabin air compressors, hydraulic and flight control systems, as well as other engine components.
All checks are required to begin by June 15, with complete compliance reports submitted to the DGCA.
Air India acknowledged that the safety inspections could impact flight schedules, particularly on long-haul international routes operating under strict airport curfews. Travelers are advised to monitor their flight status, as Air India’s safety check procedures may result in increased aircraft turnaround times.
To support impacted passengers, the airline is offering full refunds or complimentary rescheduling for flights that are delayed or cancelled.
Meanwhile, Tata Sons, the parent company of Air India, reaffirmed its commitment to those affected by the crash. The group has pledged Rs 1 crore as compensation to the families of each deceased passenger, crew member, or civilian. It will cover all medical expenses for the injured to ensure long-term recovery and care.
An investigation into the cause of the crash is currently underway.
–Input IANS
