India orders Boeing 787 inspections after deadly Air India AI171 crash

India’s aviation regulator has ordered urgent inspections of all Boeing 787 aircraft in the country after an Air India Dreamliner crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 270 people (241 of the 242 people onboard and additional people on the ground)—a tragic miscount clarified after initial confusion.

The crash, India’s worst in a decade, occurred en route to London Gatwick and involved a sudden loss of altitude followed by a fireball explosion as the plane struck buildings in Ahmedabad.

The government is investigating all possible causes, including engine thrust, flaps, and why the landing gear remained extended. A three-month inquiry is underway. Air India, which operates 33 Boeing 787s, is conducting additional safety checks but has not grounded its fleet. The airline warned of potential delays due to extended turnaround times.

Bodies are being identified through DNA and dental analysis due to severe burns. Families have begun receiving the remains of loved ones, though many are frustrated by delays. Air India has offered interim compensation of ?2.5 million ($29,000), with additional support pledged by the Tata Group.

The crash casts a dark shadow over Air India’s ongoing efforts to modernise and rebuild its reputation under Tata’s ownership.