New Delhi, June 18 — Air India has announced a 15% reduction in its international operations using wide-body aircraft, a move aimed at ensuring operational stability and building reserve capacity in the aftermath of a tragic air accident. The scaled-back schedule will take effect immediately and continue at least until mid-July, the airline said on Wednesday.
“This effectively adds to our reserve aircraft availability to take care of any unplanned disruptions,” the airline said in a statement, referencing the loss of 241 passengers and crew aboard flight AI 171, a tragedy that continues to reverberate across the aviation sector.
Air India noted that the decision was taken “to ensure stability of our operations, better efficiency and to minimise inconvenience to passengers.” The carrier has apologised to affected passengers and pledged to offer them the option of rescheduling their travel at no additional cost or receiving a full refund. A revised schedule for international services, effective from June 20, is expected to be released shortly.
Describing the reduction as a “painful but necessary” measure, Air India said it is acting in response to “a devastating event” and “an unusual combination of external events.” The airline reaffirmed its commitment to restoring normalcy and regaining public confidence.
“In coordination with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Government of Gujarat, Air India is putting all possible efforts to support the family members of the deceased and the injured,” the statement said.
Safety inspections ordered by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are currently underway. Out of Air India’s fleet of 33 Boeing 787-8/9 aircraft, 26 have passed enhanced safety inspections and been cleared for service. The remaining aircraft are expected to complete inspections soon.
Additionally, as a further precautionary measure, Air India will conduct enhanced safety checks on its Boeing 777 fleet. “Going forward, we will continue to cooperate with the authorities—AAIB, DGCA, MoCA—to ensure the safety of our passengers, our crew and our aircraft, which remains our highest priority,” the airline said.
