Air India CEO Says Crashed Dreamliner Was ‘Well-Maintained’

New Delhi: Air India CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson on Thursday said that the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that crashed in Ahmedabad on June 12 was “well-maintained” and showed no signs of technical problems prior to the flight. He stated that the last major maintenance check was conducted in June 2023, with the next scheduled for December 2025.

“The plane was well-maintained, with its last major check in June 2023 and the next scheduled for December 2025. Its right engine was overhauled in March 2025, and the left engine was inspected in April 2025. Both the aircraft and engines were regularly monitored, showing no issues before the flight,” Wilson said.

Crash Kills 270, Worst in Indian Aviation History

The Dreamliner, which was headed to London, crashed into a medical hostel complex in the Meghaninagar area of Ahmedabad shortly after taking off from the city’s airport. 

A total of 270 people, including 242 on board and several individuals on the ground, were killed in the disaster. 

In a message to passengers, Wilson said both Air India and the broader aviation community are awaiting the findings of the official investigation to determine the exact cause of the tragedy. 

Enhanced Safety Checks and Flight Reductions Announced

As a precautionary measure, Air India has started intensifying pre-flight safety checks for its Boeing 787 and 777 fleets. The CEO said these checks are aimed at rebuilding trust and ensuring absolute flight safety.

“Given the time these additional checks will consume and the potential impact on schedules, Air India has decided to reduce its international wide-body flights by around 15 per cent starting June 20 till at least mid-July,” Wilson said.

He added that this reduction would also provide the airline with a greater buffer of backup aircraft in case of unexpected issues. “We understand that this temporary reduction to our schedule may affect your travel plans, and we’re deeply sorry for any inconvenience,” he said.