What Led to the Tragic Crash of Air India's Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner?

Details of the Air India Crash

New Delhi: The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operated by Air India tragically crashed shortly after departing from Ahmedabad airport on June 12. This aircraft had recently undergone extensive maintenance checks in June 2023, with the next set of comprehensive checks scheduled for December 2023, as confirmed by airline representatives.

The flight was headed to London Gatwick when it crashed into the residential area of BJ Medical College in Ahmedabad, resulting in fatalities among the 241 passengers onboard and several individuals on the ground.

According to officials, the aircraft, identified as VT-ANB, had completed its C checks in June 2023, with the next checks planned for December. These checks were performed by AI Engineering Services Ltd (AIESL).

The right engine of the nearly 12-year-old aircraft was overhauled and reinstalled in March 2025, while the left engine was inspected in April 2025, following the manufacturer's guidelines.

The aircraft was equipped with GEnx engines produced by GE Aerospace, and officials stated that there were no reported issues with either the engines or the aircraft itself.

Air India has not released an official statement regarding the incident.

In response to the crash, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) mandated enhanced safety inspections for Air India's Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 models.

Air India confirmed that the one-time safety checks are progressing well, with inspections completed for nine of its aircraft.

The airline's fleet includes 26 Boeing 787-8s and seven Boeing 787-9s.

GE Aerospace expressed its support for the DGCA's decision to conduct additional safety inspections on Air India's 787 fleet, stating, "We are collaborating closely with regulatory and investigative bodies and are dedicated to providing all necessary technical assistance to determine the cause of this incident," according to a spokesperson.

Former Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel remarked that after three and a half years since the Tata Group's acquisition of Air India, the management must refine various operational aspects, including maintenance, to ensure the airline meets world-class standards.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is currently investigating the crash, and a high-level multi-disciplinary committee has been established to explore the accident's causes.