Air India’s Dreamliner Fleet Under Scrutiny After Ahmedabad Crash
New Delhi, India – In the wake of the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, aviation authorities have swiftly intensified their focus on safety. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a directive on June 13, mandating immediate and comprehensive safety inspections for all Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft equipped with Genx engines.
Air India, which operates 33 of these Dreamliners, is actively complying. The airline announced on June 14 that it has already completed checks on nine of its Boeing 787s and is on track to inspect the remaining 24 within the DGCA’s specified timeline. These crucial inspections are being conducted as each aircraft returns to India, ensuring they are cleared for their next operations.
DGCA’s Mandate: What the Inspections Entail
Effective June 15, the DGCA’s order requires detailed inspections of several critical systems, including:
- Fuel parameter systems
- Cabin air diagnostics
- Electronic engine controls
- Fuel-driven actuators
- Hydraulic systems
- Take-off parameters
Additionally, flight control inspections must now be part of routine transit checks, and power assurance tests are required to be completed within two weeks. The DGCA has also instructed Air India to report any recurring technical issues found on its 787 fleet over the past 15 days, with all inspection findings to be submitted to the regulator.
Potential Delays for Long-Haul Routes
Air India has cautioned passengers about possible disruptions. “Some of these checks could lead to higher turnaround time and potential delays on certain long-haul routes, especially those to airports with operating curfews,” the airline stated on X (formerly Twitter). Passengers are advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport. For those affected, Air India is offering refunds on cancellations or complimentary rescheduling.
Government Responds to Crash
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu addressed the public for the first time since the horrific crash, confirming that the black box is currently being decoded and multiple investigations are underway. “We have very strict safety standards in the country,” Naidu stated on June 14. “When the incident happened, we also felt that there is a need to do an extended surveillance into the Boeing 787 Series… There are 33 in our Indian aircraft fleet today. I believe that 8 have already been inspected and with immediate urgency, all of them are going to be done.”