After the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, the airline has announced the cancellation of 15% of its international flights. This decision has been taken due to global tensions and increased security checks. 83 flights have been cancelled in the last 6 days. Air India is providing alternative arrangements and refunds to the affected passengers. The families of those killed in the accident are also getting support from the airline and security checks are ongoing.
Safety became a priority after the accident
Air India flight number AI171 crashed in Ahmedabad on June 12, killing about 270 people, including 241 passengers. After this heartbreaking accident, the airline has prioritized safety inspections. According to a media report, Air India has described this decision as a “sad but necessary” step, which reflects its commitment to passengers, regulators and the Aviation Ministry.
Global tension and airspace restrictions are also a reason
Not just the accident, but external challenges like global geopolitical tensions, night-time airspace curfews in Europe and East Asia, and the strict security approach adopted by Air India engineers and flight staff have also impacted the airline’s operations. All these reasons have led to the cancellation of 83 international flights of Air India in the last six days alone.
Steps taken to avoid inconvenience to passengers
Air India has assured to inform the affected passengers in advance, provide them seats on alternate flights and offer ticket refunds at no additional cost. This step will help in increasing fleet availability and minimising unforeseen disruptions, thereby minimising inconvenience to passengers.
Air India with the families of the deceased
The airline has expressed its deepest condolences to the passengers, crew and citizens who lost their lives in the Ahmedabad plane crash. Air India has said in the statement that they consider the family members of the deceased as part of their “big family” and stand in full solidarity with them. The airline, in collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Government of Gujarat, is providing logistics, medical facilities and other necessary assistance to the families through Tata Group volunteers.
Investigation underway , security measures increased
The DGCA has ordered enhanced safety inspections for Air India’s Boeing 787 fleet as the investigation into the incident continues. 26 of the 33 planes have already been cleared for operations. Also, similar checks will now be carried out on the Boeing 777 fleet as a precautionary measure. Safety standards are being further tightened to ensure that such incidents are not repeated in the future.
