New Delhi — The aftermath of the deadly Air India Flight AI 171 crash has sparked a wave of national mourning, intensified public fear of flying, and prompted a sweeping technical investigation into aircraft safety standards across India’s aviation sector.

The Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed on June 12 shortly after takeoff, slamming into a hostel building at B.J. Medical College. The crash claimed the lives of 241 of the 242 people on board, and at least 39 individuals on the ground, bringing the total death toll to nearly 280. A British national, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, was the sole survivor, having escaped through an emergency exit at seat 11A. His brother, who was also aboard, was among the deceased.

Authorities have identified 259 of the 260 recovered bodies, with one victim still undergoing DNA confirmation. The tragedy has left families devastated and communities shaken, especially in Gujarat, where the incident unfolded.

India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), in coordination with the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and representatives from Boeing and GE Aerospace, is conducting a comprehensive investigation. Both flight and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered, although partially damaged. Currently, analysis is being handled within India, with a decision pending on whether further evaluation abroad will be necessary.

Maintenance records show that the aircraft’s right engine was replaced in March 2025, while the left engine had its last scheduled service in 2023 and was due for another check-up by the end of this year. Investigators are reviewing whether mechanical failure or procedural lapses contributed to the incident. CCTV footage indicates the aircraft briefly climbed to 600–650 feet before rapidly descending just 17 seconds after takeoff, hinting at possible engine loss or aerodynamic failure.

The crash has had a ripple effect across the aviation industry. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) revealed that just days before the tragedy, Air India had been flagged for safety violations involving other aircraft types. In response, inspections have been ordered for all Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft operating in India. So far, eight of the 34 aircraft have passed checks.

Beyond the technical sphere, the psychological impact on the Indian public has been severe. Flying-related anxiety has surged, with counselling centers across major cities reporting a sharp rise in calls and therapy sessions. In Bengaluru, a specialized aviation anxiety clinic noted a tenfold increase in client inquiries. Airlines are also reporting a 15 to 20 percent drop in bookings.

Air India, under the Tata Group, has pledged support for victims’ families and announced interim compensation payments. Additionally, international wide-body operations have been scaled back by approximately 15 percent to accommodate safety-related inspections and procedures.

Government officials have mandated that preliminary findings be submitted within three months. Meanwhile, aviation experts caution against drawing early conclusions, citing the need for thorough analysis of flight data, maintenance history, and pilot communication.

As India mourns the tragic loss of life, the nation awaits answers that could reshape aviation protocols and passenger confidence for years to come.