Fact Check: Air India's Boeing 787 fleet faces enhanced safety checks after crash.

Fact Check: "Air India's Boeing 787 fleet faces enhanced safety checks after crash."

What We Know

Following the recent crash of Air India's Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which tragically resulted in the loss of at least 270 lives, the airline has announced that it will implement enhanced safety checks across its fleet. The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the incident. Air India's chairman, N Chandrasekaran, confirmed that both engines of the aircraft had "clean" histories, with one engine being newly installed in March 2025 and the other not due for servicing until December 2025 (BBC).

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India has mandated additional safety inspections as a preventive measure following the crash. Air India has stated that inspections have already been completed on 26 of its 33 Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft, all of which have been cleared for service (Telegraph India). The airline's CEO, Campbell Wilson, emphasized the commitment to safety, stating that no aircraft will operate unless it is deemed 100% safe (Economic Times).

Analysis

The claim that Air India's Boeing 787 fleet is undergoing enhanced safety checks is supported by multiple credible sources. The DGCA's directive for additional inspections following the crash indicates a proactive approach to aviation safety, which is standard practice after such incidents (CNN).

While the airline's management has asserted that the crashed aircraft was well-maintained, with the last comprehensive checks performed in June 2023 and the next scheduled for December 2025 (India Today), this does not negate the necessity for enhanced scrutiny across the fleet. The fact that the DGCA did not identify any major safety concerns prior to the crash (Reuters) suggests that while the fleet met existing safety standards, the crash has prompted a reevaluation of maintenance and operational protocols.

The reliability of the sources cited is high, as they include statements from airline officials, regulatory bodies, and industry experts. However, it is important to note that the situation is still evolving, and further investigations may yield new information that could affect the current understanding of safety practices within Air India.

Conclusion

The claim that Air India's Boeing 787 fleet is facing enhanced safety checks after the crash is True. The airline has initiated additional inspections as a precautionary measure, reflecting a commitment to safety in light of the tragic incident. The actions taken by Air India and mandated by the DGCA underscore the importance of rigorous safety protocols in aviation.

Fact Check: Air India's Boeing 787 fleet faces enhanced safety checks after crash.