DELHI: Air India has requested media organizations to refrain from calling its dedicated passenger helpline following the crash of Flight AI171, instead directing journalists to contact the airline’s official media team for updates. The advisory came as the carrier scrambled to respond to one of India’s worst aviation disasters in recent years.
The ill-fated Boeing 787-8 aircraft, operating as Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed moments after takeoff at 1:38 PM local time. Preliminary reports indicate at least 132 fatalities among the 242 passengers and crew on board.
Key Details:
– The flight was carrying 169 Indian nationals, 53 British citizens, 1 Canadian, and 7 Portuguese passengers
– Pilots Captain Sumit Sabbharwal and First Officer Clive Kundur issued a Mayday call before the crash
– Emergency teams are conducting rescue operations at the crash site near the airport
– Injured survivors are being transported to nearby hospitals
Air India’s Response:
The national carrier has established a 24/7 helpline (1800 5691 444) for affected families while warning media personnel against using the emergency line. “For any media-related queries, they may reach out to Air India’s media contact,” the airline stated in its official communication.
Aviation authorities, including the DGCA, have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, with support expected from Boeing technical teams. Air India confirmed it will provide regular updates through its official website (airindia.com) and X handle (@airindia).
