Safety Takes the Pilot Seat: Air India CEO Promises Sky-High Standards

Image Source: The Economic Times

After the Air India AI171 crash near Ahmedabad on 12th June, in which 241 died, Air India CEO Campbell Wilson has issued a comforting message: no aircraft will take to the skies unless it's 100% safe. The airline has augmented safety measures and ensured complete transparency as investigations are underway.

1. Enhanced Safety Measures & Inspections on the Fleet

Air India completed additional precautionary checks on its fleet of Boeing 787 aircraft, as directed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Even after passing the tests, the airline will continue to conduct extra pre-flight checks on its own, prioritizing maximum care for passengers and crew.
Wilson reaffirmed, "Where there is any doubt, we will not release aircraft of any type for service".

2. Assistance and Support for Victims & Staff

More than 500 Air India and Tata Group staff are in Ahmedabad assisting families of the victims and affected staff.
More than 200 families have been helped, and Wilson once again reiterated that "these families are now Tata families."
Staff returning from Ahmedabad are being provided with leave and counseling facilities by experts.

3. Investigation & Transparency

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the investigation. Air India has promised total cooperation and will act swiftly on all safety recommendations.
Wilson discouraged gossip and said facts must guide future improvements.
The carrier has also suspended flight operations temporarily due to extended safety inspections and air space restrictions.

4. Public Opinion & Industry Impact

A survey recently revealed 79% of Air India passengers experienced maintenance problems in the past year, while only 55% had such problems in 2024.

The accident has further led to increased cancellations and drops in prices, as flyers reevaluate their options.

Sources: MSN News, Business Standard, The Economic Times, Hindustan Times