On June 17, 2025, Air India stunned international travelers by cancelling six international flights operated by its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. The cancellations, sudden but not entirely unexpected, follow the catastrophic crash of Flight AI171 on June 12 in Ahmedabad—one of India’s worst aviation disasters in recent history. These cancellations are more than just operational hiccups; they reflect a deepening crisis in aircraft safety management, emergency preparedness, and the challenges that modern aviation faces when tragedy strikes.
List of Cancelled Flights: Who Was Affected?
The following major international services were abruptly cancelled or delayed:
- AI 915 – Delhi to Dubai
- AI 153 – Delhi to Vienna
- AI 143/AI 142 – Delhi to Paris and return
- AI 159 – Ahmedabad to London
- AI 133 – Bengaluru to London
- AI 170 – London to Amritsar
Additionally, AI 315 (Hong Kong to Delhi) was forced to return mid-air due to technical anomalies. Thousands of passengers were left stranded or had to be rescheduled, many of them missing crucial events like visa appointments, business meetings, and family gatherings.
Why Were These Flights Cancelled?
DGCA’s Emergency Inspection Order: After the AI171 crash, India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), issued an emergency directive for thorough inspections of all Dreamliners. Checks included detailed engine, fuel, and electrical system inspections, grounding of planes with even minor issues, and enhanced monitoring of flight crew mental health.
Precautionary Grounding & Safety Alerts: At least nine Dreamliners were under preventive maintenance. Faults detected in engines, sensors, and cabin pressure systems led to immediate grounding to avoid further tragedies.
AI171 Crash: The Turning Point for Indian Aviation
On June 12, 2025, Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 241 of 242 onboard and 38 people on the ground. It was a horrific incident that shook the nation.
- Aircraft Type: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
- Aircraft Age: 11.3 years (tail no. VT-AND)
- Departure: 5:17 AM from Ahmedabad
- Crash Site: Near airport perimeter, impacting a residential complex and college hostel
- Fatalities: 279 (241 onboard + 38 ground)
- Survivors: 1 cabin crew member
Technical Focus: What’s Being Inspected?
The Dreamliner is undergoing India’s largest post-crash technical audit. Inspections cover engine control units, FADEC systems, fuel sensors, hydraulic leaks, oxygen systems, and cockpit alerts.
Global Spotlight on Boeing Again
This was the first fatal crash of a 787 caused by in-flight systems failure. Airlines globally are revisiting 787 maintenance, and Boeing teams are assisting in India as the company faces renewed scrutiny after the 737 MAX crisis.
How Are Passengers Affected?
Air India is offering refunds, free rescheduling, hotel stays, and meal vouchers. Dedicated helplines were set up. Still, many passengers criticized poor communication and chaotic service desks.
Ripple Effects Across Indian Aviation
The Dreamliner grounding disrupted other airlines and cargo shipments. Vistara rescheduled flights, IndiGo saw a surge in international bookings, and exporters faced delays.
Mental Health Crisis Among Crew and Ground Staff
Staff reported severe stress, panic attacks, and trauma. Air India launched a confidential mental wellness helpline, recognizing the importance of psychological safety in aviation.
DGCA’s Regulatory Crackdown: A New Era?
DGCA is intensifying audits of crew training, rest compliance, simulator checks, and defect reporting. A task force is aligning Indian standards with FAA and EASA norms.
Political and Public Reactions
The government promised zero-tolerance on negligence. The PMO demanded monthly safety reviews. The public, while appreciating quick action, questioned the age of the aircraft and demanded accountability and a criminal probe.
Financial Fallout for Air India
Air India faces daily losses of ₹18–25 crore (~$2.5–3 million). Corporate clients have rerouted bookings, and fleet renewal may now take priority over expansion.
What’s Next for Boeing 787 in India?
DGCA’s audit report is expected by August 2025. If major faults are found, it could lead to engine replacements or software updates, along with legal and financial consequences for Boeing.
Expert Views
Aviation experts stress the need for predictive maintenance and independent safety oversight without political interference to prevent future tragedies.
Conclusion: Turbulent Skies Ahead
Air India’s move to ground Dreamliner flights is a defining moment for Indian aviation. With lives lost, trust shaken, and safety systems under review, the coming months will be critical for the aviation sector’s future. Passengers and families await the truth behind AI171, hoping for reforms that will ensure no such disaster happens again.
Report by Toofan Express