The London-bound Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that crashed into a medical hostel complex in Ahmedabad on June 12, claiming 270 lives, was “well-maintained,” said Air India CEO and managing director Campbell Wilson on Thursday.
According to Wilson, the aircraft underwent its last major inspection in June 2023, and the next was 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,”
— Campbell Wilson, as quoted by PTI.
The Boeing 787-8, carrying 242 people, crashed into the BJ Medical College hostel complex in Meghaninagar, Ahmedabad, just moments after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The crash, followed by a massive fire, resulted in the deaths of all on board and 29 people on the ground, making it India’s deadliest aviation disaster.
In a message addressed to passengers, Wilson said both Air India and the entire aviation industry are waiting for the official investigation report to determine the cause of the crash. He added that pre-flight safety checks across the airline’s Boeing 787 and 777 fleet are being enhanced.
“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,” he said.
“This will also allow us to have more backup aircraft ready to handle any 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 added.
The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger safety and pledged full cooperation with the investigative authorities.