Air India in distress: Airlines bookings drop 20 per cent, fares cut up to 15 per cent after Dreamliner crash
New Delhi: Bookings for Air India flights have declined by around 20 per cent on domestic as well as international routes while the average fares have dropped by 8-15 per cent in the aftermath of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crash in Ahmedabad, on June 12, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) President Ravi Gosain said on Friday.
Gosain told PTI, “Following the unfortunate incident involving Air India, we have observed a temporary drop in bookings, particularly on international sectors. Our estimates suggest a decline of 18–22 per cent internationally and 10–12 per cent domestically.”
Following a directive from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Air India confirmed it has completed “Enhanced Safety Inspections” on 26 out of its 33 Boeing 787 8/9 Dreamliner aircraft. Inspections on the remaining aircraft are expected to conclude in the coming days.
The move aims to restore operational stability and passenger confidence while the inspections and investigations continue.
Additionally, the airline is undertaking precautionary inspections of its Boeing 777 fleet. “We continue to work closely with DGCA, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), and the Ministry of Civil Aviation to ensure the highest standards of safety for our passengers, crew, and aircraft,” Air India said in a statement.Air India Issues Apology, Support Measures After AI171 Crash
Air India has issued an official apology acknowledging the inconvenience caused to travellers following the AI171 crash, which it described as “the worst air tragedy the nation has faced in decades.” The airline is offering:
- Free rescheduling
- Full refunds for cancelled flights
- Alternate travel arrangements wherever possible
- A revised international schedule will be released by June 20, 2025
Air India, in coordination with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Government of Gujarat, is actively supporting victims’ families. Volunteers from the Tata Group and Air India are stationed in Ahmedabad, assisting with hospital support and arrangements for the dignified return of the deceased.
“We consider the family members of the deceased as part of our larger family and stand in complete solidarity with them in these difficult times,” the company statement said.