After deadly Air India crash, more Indian flyers now checking aircraft type before booking, shows survey

In the aftermath of the fatal Air India Boeing 787-8 crash in Ahmedabad on June 12 that claimed nearly 270 lives, air travellers in India are increasingly scrutinising aircraft details before booking flights. A new survey by community platform LocalCircles has revealed that a significant shift in traveller behaviour, with 41% of respondents now stating they would check the aircraft type before flying, a sharp jump from just 10% in 2022.

The survey, which drew over 40,000 responses from 294 districts across the country, highlights growing safety concerns amid multiple flight delays, cancellations, and mid-air turnarounds involving Boeing 787-8 aircraft. Of those surveyed, 56% supported the idea of the Indian government grounding the Boeing 787-8 until all technical issues are investigated and resolved.

The crash has triggered global scrutiny, with the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) working alongside Indian authorities to determine whether a technical fault in the aircraft led to the tragedy. Investigations are focused on a possible dual engine failure and other mechanical system failures. The aircraft reportedly issued a “Mayday… no power” distress call moments before impact.

Adding to traveller anxiety, incidents involving the same aircraft type have been reported globally since the crash. For instance, British Airways flight BA35 bound for Chennai on June 15 had to return to London shortly after take-off due to a suspected wing-flap malfunction. On June 16, Air India flight AI315 from Hong Kong to Delhi also turned back mid-air citing technical issues.

Since the Ahmedabad tragedy, Air India has cancelled 16 Boeing 787-operated flights, contributing to unease among flyers. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has inspected 24 out of Air India’s 33 Boeing 787 aircraft, with nine still awaiting checks. So far, no major safety lapses have been detected.

While pricing and flight timing still top the list of considerations for Indian travellers, the survey reveals, the aircraft type is now emerging as a critical factor, reflecting a shift in public sentiment that may influence airline operations and government oversight going forward.

As public trust in aircraft safety wavers, completing thorough inspections and transparently communicating findings will be key to restoring traveller confidence.