Air India Flight AI171 Tragedy: Travel Industry Unites in Mourning and Calls for Safety Reform, ET TravelWorld
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Air India plane crash prompts India to launch high-level aviation safety review
The Air India AI-171 crash, which claimed more than 260 lives, has prompted the Indian government to initiate a high-level aviation safety review. With global investigators, including the FAA and Boeing, involved, the tragedy marks the first-ever Boeing 787-8 crash and raises urgent questions about aircraft safety, oversight, and systemic reforms. See More Details
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The Indian travel and tourism industry has united in a wave of grief and support following the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171 on June 12, shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad en route to London Gatwick. The crash of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which claimed more than 270 lives, including those of 241 people onboard, has sent shockwaves across aviation, hospitality, and trade sectors.The travel community's grief is underscored by the widespread participation of associations across inbound, outbound, adventure, and tourism training sectors, each issuing heartfelt tributes and action-oriented appeals.The Ministry of Civil Aviation, Air India, and emergency responders have been quick to take swift actions, while stakeholders across the ecosystem are calling for an in-depth safety review and stronger support systems for affected families.Several travel trade associations have responded by sharing condolences to the families while calling for safety review by the government. Rajiv Mehra, Secretary General, FAITH (Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality), said, 'FAITH stands with the aviation ecosystem in mourning this tragic loss. Our prayers are with the families of the deceased. We welcome the government's announcement of a high-level safety review and stress the need for preventive mechanisms. This is a moment for the entire industry to unite and push for reforms that prioritize human life above all.'Sunil Kumar, President, TAAI (Travel Agents Association of India), said: 'This tragedy has deeply shaken our industry. We express our profound grief and offer condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. Air India, as our national carrier, is not just a brand — it is a legacy. We extend our solidarity with the airline's staff and management. TAAI supports the government's move for a thorough investigation. Ensuring the safety of air passengers must be our foremost priority.'Ravi Gosain, President, IATO (Indian Association of Tour Operators), stated, 'It's a devastating loss. We send our deepest condolences to the families of the passengers and crew. As part of India's inbound tourism community, we have always worked closely with Air India and are proud of its contribution. The tragedy warrants a strong policy-driven approach towards aviation safety. We stand with Air India and all the support staff handling this crisis.'Himanshu Patil, President, OTOAI (Outbound Tour Operators Association of India), remarked: 'We are stunned and heartbroken. As outbound tour operators, many of our clients have flown with Air India to the UK and other long-haul destinations. The crash has deeply impacted traveller confidence. We urge the authorities to conduct a transparent inquiry and support international cooperation for aviation safety. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families and to Air India's team.'Ajeet Bajaj, President, ATOAI (Adventure Tour Operators Association of India), said, 'Every single life lost was on a journey, possibly of hope and purpose. We express our condolences to the families and pray for strength in this difficult time. The crash reminds us of the shared responsibility we carry as travel professionals. We join hands with the broader fraternity to push for safety reforms across sectors.'Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson, THSC (Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council), shared, 'The crash is not just an aviation tragedy, but a human one. The loss of life, including young professionals and travellers with aspirations, is painful. Our hearts go out to the families. We must now turn to action — through better training, upgraded standards, and emotional support services . THSC pledges to work closely with authorities and operators to implement robust safety and skills frameworks.'Satish Sehrawat and Bobby K.S. Sawhney, Executive Committee Members, ITTA (Indian Tourist Transporters Association) issued a joint note: 'This disaster has left an irreparable scar on our industry. As ground transport providers who regularly connect with airports and inbound travel, we feel this loss personally. We extend our support to families and urge the government and Air India to offer transparent updates and long-term rehabilitation measures.'Beyond condolences, these industry voices collectively underscore the need for resilience, transparency, and long-term support. From psychological counselling to policy-level changes, the associations have pledged to contribute wherever possible, from operational support to advocating for systemic change.As investigation efforts continue, the tragedy of AI-171 stands as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the need to continually reexamine aviation and travel protocols.
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