Air India Board Initiates Comprehensive Safety Overhaul Following Operational Incidents

 Mumbai | June 24, 2025 — In response to recent aviation incidents, including the Ahmedabad runway mishap and subsequent crash, the Air India board convened a high-level internal meeting on Wednesday in Mumbai to evaluate operational risks and refine strategic protocols. The meeting was chaired by Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran.

According to sources familiar with the proceedings, the board has initiated an extensive safety reform initiative, beginning with a fleet-wide audit of all aircraft. This audit, to be conducted in accordance with international aviation safety and security standards, will assess both the technical health and operational readiness of each aircraft in service.

The decision follows two serious incidents in the span of three days. On June 10, an Air India flight from Delhi to Ahmedabad skidded off the taxiway during landing amid heavy rainfall. Although no injuries were reported, the event triggered serious concerns over procedural compliance. Just two days later, on June 12, a London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed in Ahmedabad. The aircraft reportedly struck the mess building of BJ Medical College Civil Hospital before crashing into the Atulyam Hostel, resulting in significant structural damage and casualties.

In alignment with directives from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Air India is finalizing a detailed health report of its entire fleet. Sources indicate that the airline is in the final stages of compiling this documentation, which will be submitted to regulators shortly.

To enhance oversight, the board has established a high-level internal committee tasked with monitoring all critical aspects of airline operations. Empowered with full decision-making authority, the committee will review flight routes, scheduling frequency, and operational strategy with a focus on safety and efficiency.

“This is not a symbolic step,” a senior official stated. “The committee is mandated to act swiftly and decisively in the best interests of passengers and the airline’s operational integrity.”

To support the ongoing investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) into the June 12 crash, the board also approved the creation of a dedicated coordination task force. This unit will facilitate seamless access to technical records, personnel, and documentation as required by investigative authorities.

In a parallel move to stabilize operations, Air India has temporarily suspended three flight routes until July 2025 and reduced frequency on 19 additional routes. These adjustments are intended to enhance overall network stability and reduce the likelihood of last-minute disruptions.

Despite these measured reductions, Air India will continue to operate nearly 600 daily flights across 120 domestic and regional international routes using its narrowbody fleet.

These actions reflect a robust response by the Tata Group-owned national carrier to reinforce accountability, improve safety governance, and restore public confidence in its operations.