Air India CEO Confirms Passenger Volume Recovery Following Boeing 787-8 AI-171 Crash Dip

Air India's passenger volumes have largely rebounded from a temporary decline experienced after the fatal crash of its Boeing 787-8 aircraft, flight AI-171, in June. The airline's CEO and MD announced this significant recovery, indicating a strong return to normalcy in most operational markets. This rebound underscores the carrier's resilience and efforts to restore passenger confidence following the incident. The June 2025 crash of the Air India Boeing 787-8 had initially led to a noticeable dip in passenger traffic across various routes. This incident prompted a period of operational adjustments and heightened scrutiny for the Indian flag carrier. The immediate aftermath saw concerns over safety and a potential impact on booking trends, particularly for wide-body services. Despite the initial setback, Air India swiftly implemented measures to stabilize its operations and reassure its customer base. The airline successfully reverted to its normal wide-body flight schedule from October, with only a few specific services remaining affected. This strategic return to full capacity played a crucial role in the observed recovery of passenger volumes. The recovery in passenger numbers reflects the broader industry's ability to navigate and overcome significant challenges. For Air India, regaining passenger trust after a major incident involving a key aircraft type like the Boeing 787-8 is vital for its long-term growth and market position. The CEO's statement provides a positive outlook on the airline's operational stability and market acceptance.