The recent crash of an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner in Ahmedabad, and the subsequent mass leave taken by Air India pilots, has cast a spotlight on pilot mental health and safety protocols within the aviation industry. The tragic incident, which occurred on June 12, 2025, involved flight AI 171 en route to London Gatwick, crashing into a hostel building shortly after takeoff, killing 274 people.
In the aftermath of the crash, on June 16, 2025, 112 Air India pilots, including 51 commanders and 61 first officers, reported sick. This mass leave has triggered serious concerns about the psychological well-being of flight crews, especially following such a devastating accident. While Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol clarified that this uptick did not qualify as mass sick reporting, it did reflect the emotional and psychological impact within the workforce.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had already taken steps to address mental health issues in the aviation sector prior to the crash. In February 2023, the DGCA issued a circular recommending airlines to develop standalone training modules for flight crew and Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs) to help identify and manage mental health challenges. Additionally, airlines and aviation bodies were advised to implement a Peer Support Programme (PSP) as a proactive and non-punitive approach to support aviation personnel dealing with stress or psychological issues.
Following the Ahmedabad crash, the DGCA reiterated the importance of these measures, emphasizing the need for customized training capsules for flight crew and ATCOs to manage the adverse effects of mental health conditions. Minister Mohol also stated that airlines were issued notices in February 2023 requiring them to ensure "quick and effective methods to assess mental health" during medical tests.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) preliminary report indicated that the fuel control switches transitioned from 'RUN' to 'CUTOFF' position moments after lift-off, causing the aircraft to lose thrust. While the official investigation is ongoing, speculation about potential pilot error has emerged, prompting strong reactions from pilot associations. The Indian Commercial Pilots Association (ICPA) and the Airline Pilots' Association of India (ALPA India) have rejected claims of human error, calling it a "reckless and unfounded insinuation". ALPA India President Sam Thomas stated that the investigation seemed to be presuming the guilt of pilots. The ICPA expressed deep disturbance over speculative narratives, especially the insinuation of pilot suicide, deeming it a gross violation of ethical reporting.
The focus on pilot mental health also brings to light the pressures and unique challenges faced by aviation professionals. Pilots undergo rigorous physical exams every six months, but psychological evaluations are not as formalized. There are concerns that pilots may be hesitant to self-report mental health issues due to fears of being grounded and losing their livelihood.
In light of the Ahmedabad crash and the subsequent concerns raised, the aviation industry is urged to prioritize and strengthen mental health support systems for pilots and aviation personnel. This includes implementing comprehensive mental health assessments, providing access to peer support programs, and fostering a culture where individuals feel safe to seek help without fear of reprisal. Addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of both flight crews and passengers.