Air India Cancels Ahmedabad-London, Delhi-Paris Flights Amid Safety Concerns
In the wake of operational challenges and heightened safety protocols, Air India cancelled two major international flights on June 17, 2025—from Ahmedabad to London and Delhi to Paris. The move comes days after the tragic crash of flight AI171, which shook India’s aviation sector and prompted stricter checks on aircraft readiness and turnaround procedures.
Air India’s official website confirmed that flight AI-159 from Ahmedabad to Gatwick Airport, London, was cancelled after initially being rescheduled. The flight was expected to depart at 3 PM from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA), impacting over 200 passengers.
“We have been informed that the flight has been cancelled due to operational issues,” an SVPIA official stated.
Interestingly, AI-159 had only recently replaced the older AI-171, which resumed operations just a day before the cancellation. This flight was also the first London-bound flight from Ahmedabad since the devastating crash on June 12, which claimed 241 lives out of 242 passengers and crew.
Air India’s Explanation
An Air India spokesperson clarified that the cancellation was not due to any technical fault, but rather the result of airspace restrictions, longer turnaround times, and additional precautionary checks. The airline cited aircraft unavailability as the key operational bottleneck.
“We regret the inconvenience caused and have made alternative arrangements including hotel accommodations, full fare refunds, and complimentary rescheduling,” the spokesperson added.
Additionally, flight AI170—scheduled to fly from London Gatwick to Amritsar on June 17—was also cancelled as a direct consequence.
Delhi-Paris Flight Also Hit
In another setback, Air India’s Delhi to Paris service was suspended due to a hydraulic leak, further compounding the airline’s operational woes.
Passengers Speak Out
Frustration among passengers was evident.
“I was going to Gatwick, London by the 1 PM flight. The crew didn’t offer any reasons or refund details after informing us about the cancellation.”
Growing Concerns Over Flight Safety
Air India has been grappling with multiple technical and operational issues in recent months. The June 12 crash of AI171, which occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, is under intensive investigation. The incident is being referred to as one of the deadliest aviation tragedies in recent Indian history.
Following the crash, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ordered comprehensive inspections of long-haul aircraft in Air India’s fleet, especially those operating international routes.
Airline’s Recent Challenges
The national carrier has seen a spate of emergency landings, technical snags, and now flight suspensions, raising questions over the effectiveness of maintenance protocols and operational planning under the newly privatized management of Tata Group.
Industry analysts suggest that while safety precautions are necessary, the frequent disruptions could damage customer trust and brand reputation, especially for international flyers.
What Should Affected Passengers Do?
If you were booked on one of the cancelled flights:
Check your email/SMS for updates from Air India.
Contact customer care for rescheduling or full refunds.
Ask for hotel accommodation, if you’re stranded.
Retain booking receipts and flight details for travel insurance claims, if applicable.
Final Thoughts
Air India’s latest flight cancellations point to a broader issue of fleet readiness, safety compliance, and post-crash sensitivity. While precaution is welcome, the airline must improve communication and passenger support systems to ensure minimal disruption and maintain its international credibility.