In the wake of the devastating Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has swiftly ordered enhanced safety inspections for the airline's Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. The directive, issued on June 13, 2025, comes a day after the fatal accident that claimed the lives of 241 people. This move underscores the regulatory body's commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety in air travel and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
The DGCA's order mandates immediate and thorough safety checks on Air India's Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft. These inspections will encompass a wide range of critical systems and components, including fuel parameters, cabin air compressors, engine control systems, and hydraulic systems. The comprehensive nature of these checks reflects the DGCA's determination to identify and address any potential safety risks that may exist within the Dreamliner fleet. The enhanced inspections are scheduled to commence on June 15, 2025.
The Ahmedabad crash marks a significant event, as it is the first such accident involving the Boeing 787 model, which had previously maintained a strong safety record. According to initial reports, the black box of the London-bound aircraft has been recovered from the rooftop of the building it crashed into. The data from the black box will be crucial in determining the cause of the accident and identifying any contributing factors.
In addition to the enhanced safety inspections, there are reports suggesting that India is considering grounding the Boeing 787-8 fleet of aircraft. This potential measure indicates the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the situation and their willingness to take decisive action to ensure passenger safety. However, as of now, this remains a possibility under consideration.
The DGCA's proactive measures and the potential grounding of the 787-8 fleet highlight the paramount importance of safety in the aviation industry. Accidents like the one in Ahmedabad serve as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of even minor lapses in safety protocols. By implementing enhanced inspections and considering further actions, the DGCA aims to reassure the public and restore confidence in air travel.