Air India has reported a slight increase in the number of pilots calling in sick following the tragic crash of flight AI 171 last month in Ahmedabad that left 260 people dead. The incident has not only triggered widespread concern over aviation safety but has also raised questions about pilot well-being and mental health preparedness within Indian aviation.
51 Commanders, 61 First Officers Report Sick on June 16
Responding to a query in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol confirmed that the airline saw a minor rise in sick leaves across all its fleets post the accident. Specifically, on June 16, just four days after the fatal crash, a total of 112 pilots—comprising 51 commanders and 61 first officers—reported sick. Mohol clarified, however, that this uptick does not qualify as mass sick reporting but does reflect an understandable emotional and psychological impact within the workforce.
The crash involved a Boeing 787-8 aircraft operating the AI 171 flight from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick. The plane crashed into a building shortly after take-off on June 12, killing 241 passengers onboard and 19 people on the ground. Only one passenger survived the deadly incident.
DGCA Guidelines Stress Mental Health Support
In light of such incidents, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had already introduced measures to address mental health issues within the aviation sector. A circular issued in February 2023 recommended that airlines develop standalone training modules for flight crew and Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs) to help identify and manage the effects of mental health challenges.
Airlines and aviation bodies, including Flying Training Organisations (FTOs) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI), have also been advised to implement a Peer Support Programme (PSP). This initiative is designed as a proactive, non-punitive approach to support aviation personnel dealing with stress or psychological issues.
No Civilian Compensation Policy Yet
In a separate response, Mohol said that the Ministry of Civil Aviation currently has no specific policy to compensate civilians on the ground who suffer injuries or damages due to a plane crash. The statement may renew discussions about extending legal and financial protections to victims beyond those onboard the aircraft.