The Air India tragedy in Ahmedabad marks the first crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since its introduction in 2011. While the 787 has faced engine issues leading to grounding and reduced flights for airlines, its overall safety record has been commendable. However, concerns raised by the US safety regulator, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), including a mid-air incident on a Latam flight, have prompted investigations.

A whistleblower’s call to ground all 787 Dreamliners worldwide last year was rebutted by Boeing, which expressed full confidence in the aircraft. With over 1,100 787s in service globally, the model is lauded for its fuel efficiency and noise reduction compared to its predecessors. Notably, the two major crashes involving Boeing planes were linked to the 737 Max model, leading to its temporary suspension before reintroduction.

Boeing’s recent $1.1bn deal with the US Department of Justice to avoid prosecution over the 737 Max crashes has stirred controversy among victims’ families. Air India, operating 34 Dreamliners with plans for additional orders, has been navigating delays in Boeing deliveries, prolonging the use of older aircraft. Tata Group’s ownership of Air India since 2022 has spurred fleet upgrades, including refurbishing 787s.

The ongoing crash investigation, involving international experts, aims to uncover the cause of the tragedy. Despite the human toll, the Ahmedabad crash had a relatively low impact, with CCTV footage revealing the plane’s sudden descent post-takeoff. While the incident remains puzzling without clear explanations, industry experts emphasize the safety and resilience of modern passenger aircraft.