Air India was forced to cancel seven international flights on Tuesday, citing reasons ranging from technical faults to aircraft unavailability. Of the cancelled services, six were operated using Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft — the same model involved in the recent Ahmedabad crash that claimed over 270 lives.
The affected flights include:
- AI915: Delhi to Dubai – Boeing 787-8
- AI153: Delhi to Vienna – Boeing 787-8
- AI143: Delhi to Paris – Boeing 787-8
- AI159: Ahmedabad to London – Boeing 787-8
- AI170: London to Amritsar – Boeing 787-8
- AI133: Bengaluru to London – Boeing 787-8
- AI179: Mumbai to San Francisco – Boeing 777
Air India clarified that the Delhi–Paris route was cancelled due to technical issues identified during pre-flight checks, while the Ahmedabad–London cancellation stemmed from aircraft unavailability. The reasons behind the remaining cancellations were not disclosed but were reflected on the airline’s website.
These disruptions come just days after the crash of flight AI171 on June 12, prompting the airline to ramp up safety inspections — particularly of its Dreamliner fleet. The intensified checks are believed to have strained operational schedules, leading to delays and cancellations.
In an official statement, Air India apologized for the inconvenience and assured passengers of alternative travel arrangements. “We are providing hotel stays and offering either full refunds or complimentary rescheduling options,” the airline said.
Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has convened an urgent meeting with senior officials from Air India and Air India Express. While the agenda remains unspecified, it is expected to address the recent surge in flight cancellations, delays, and safety concerns tied to the Boeing 787 aircraft.
The aviation regulator’s intervention signals growing concern over operational reliability and passenger safety, especially in the wake of the tragic crash and mounting technical snags.