Air India Reduces Flight Operations Amidst Mounting Mourning and Safety Concerns Following Ahmedabad Air Disaster
New Delhi: Amidst National Grief, Air India Adjusts Operations
In the wake of the heart-wrenching disaster that claimed 241 lives, Air India is making vital alterations to its international flight operations. With the nation still grieving the loss of Flight AI171, the airline is implementing sweeping adjustments, all while comforting the families of the deceased.
In a heartfelt statement, the airline expressed, "Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and communities touched by this tragedy." Reflecting on the victims and their kin, Air India refers to them as extended family members. Support teams, including Tata Group volunteers, are posted in Ahmedabad, at hospitals, helping families and managing transportation arrangements for the deceased.
"We pray for the dearly departed souls and extend our most sincere condolences to the affected families," the company shared.
As the nation mourns, Air India is simultaneously addressing a safety revamp. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered a thorough 'Enhanced Safety Inspection' of Air India's Boeing 787 fleet. Out of the 33 widebody aircraft in this category, 26 have cleared inspection, leaving the remainder undergoing checks. Not stopping there, Air India's Boeing 777 aircraft will also undergo checks as part of a broader risk-control initiative.
"The remaining inspections are anticipated to be finalized in the coming days, offering reassurance about the safety measures and procedures implemented by the airline," the statement said.
Shifting Landscape of Operations
With engineering teams engrossed in safety inspections and flight crews working under stringent guidelines, the strain on the airline's resources has intensified. On top of that, nationwide airspace restrictions over various countries due to Middle East tensions have triggered a domino effect.
These simultaneous pressures have led to 83 flight cancellations over the past six days. In a move aimed at fortifying its operations, Air India has implemented a reduction of 15% in international operations on widebody aircraft lasting until at least mid-July.
This action is positioned as a stabilizing measure, allowing the airline to introduce more reserve capacity and shield its remaining operations from sudden disruptions.
Offering Relief to Affected Passengers
Passengers affected by the cancellations will be notified in advance. Offered options are to rebook without extra charge or receive a full refund. The revised schedule, commencing June 20, will be announced shortly.
Air India expressed regret for the inconvenience caused but justified it as an effort to maintain operational reliability and safety.
- In the aftermath of the aviation disaster, the finance department of Air India is carefully managing the transportation logistics for the families of the victims, including coordinating efforts with Tata Group volunteers.
- Amidst the general-news tragedy and ongoing tension in the Middle East, the industry of air transportation is facing challenges, leading to the cancellation of 83 flights by Air India over the past six days.
- As part of a broader risk-control initiative, Air India's finance sector is cooperating with justice authorities, as the aviation and DGCA departments collaborate on an 'Enhanced Safety Inspection' of the airline's Boeing 787 and 777 fleets.
