Kathmandu: A major revelation has emerged in the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed the lives of 241 out of 242 passengers and crew. Investigations have revealed that the aircraft’s right engine had recently undergone maintenance and was replaced just three months ago, in March 2025.
The 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, operating flight AI-171 from Ahmedabad to London, crashed minutes after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. It struck a medical hostel building in Meghani Nagar, resulting in a massive explosion and fire. Including casualties on the ground, the total death toll has reached approximately 270, making it one of India’s deadliest aviation disasters in over a decade.
Sources indicate that the aircraft underwent a comprehensive maintenance check in June 2023, with its next scheduled inspection due in December 2025. Notably, Air India had increased its insurance coverage for the Boeing 787-8 fleet from ₹750 crore to ₹850 crore in April. The total insurance claim from this crash is expected to reach nearly ₹3,000 crore, making it the costliest aviation insurance payout in Indian history and sending shockwaves through the aviation insurance industry.
Among the victims was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. The sole survivor, British national of Indian origin Ramesh Vishwas Kumar, miraculously escaped with minor injuries.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued new safety directives specifically targeting Boeing Dreamliner aircraft operated by Air India. A thorough inspection of the entire fleet has been ordered. The Indian government has also formed a high-level investigation committee, led by the Union Home Secretary, which is expected to submit its report within three months.
In a statement, Air India said it is fully cooperating with DGCA directives and has already completed inspections on nine out of its 33 Dreamliners. The airline plans to finish all mandatory checks within the timeframe set by authorities before resuming full operations of the remaining aircraft.
