Air India CEO urges calm after AI-171 crash report

New Delhi

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson has called for calm and patience following the release of the preliminary investigation report into the tragic AI-171 accident, which killed 241 passengers on June 12.

In a letter to employees on Monday, Wilson highlighted that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) found no mechanical or maintenance issues with the aircraft or its engines. The report also confirmed that all required maintenance tasks were completed, the fuel was of good quality, and the take-off roll was normal.

"The preliminary report found no faults with the aircraft or engines. All maintenance was up to date, and the pilots had no medical or alcohol-related issues," Wilson stated.

He warned against jumping to conclusions since the investigation is still ongoing and no final cause has been determined. "We must avoid drawing premature conclusions. The investigation is far from over," he stressed.

Wilson also criticized the media for spreading speculation and rumors in the days following the crash. He described many reports as "sensational headlines" that were later proven false.

After the crash, Air India conducted thorough checks on all its Boeing 787 aircraft under the supervision of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). All aircraft were declared safe to fly.

Praising the airline staff, Wilson commended their compassion and teamwork during this difficult time. "Despite our shared grief, I am proud of the togetherness, compassion, and resilience everyone has shown," he wrote.

Reaffirming Air India’s commitment to cooperate fully with the AAIB, Wilson urged employees to focus on the airline’s core values and to continue supporting the victims’ families and maintaining safety and service standards.