112 pilots went on leave days after Air India’s Ahmedabad crash: Aviation MoS tells Lok Sabha
The devastating Air India AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025, has created deep concerns in the aviation industry. The tragedy, which killed 260 people, including 19 on the ground, has left a lasting emotional impact on Air India’s staff. In a recent statement to the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, revealed that 112 Air India pilots went on leave just four days after the crash. This sudden wave of leave applications raised questions about pilot confidence and mental health.
The AI-171 Crash and Its Impact
The crash of AI-171 has become one of India’s deadliest aviation accidents. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner plunged seconds after takeoff, killing all 241 passengers and crew. Investigators are examining possible technical faults in the aircraft’s fuel system along with human factors. In response, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ordered strict inspections of all Boeing 787s in Air India’s fleet.
For pilots, the tragedy was personal. Many knew the crew on board and felt the weight of the loss. Aviation experts have stressed that pilots face extraordinary mental pressure, especially after incidents involving colleagues or their airline. The 112 pilots who took leave were likely trying to recover mentally rather than showing fear or protest.
Aviation MoS Clarifies the Situation
Murlidhar Mohol addressed the matter in Parliament to dispel confusion. He said the spike in leave requests was “a minor increase across fleets.” According to him, this pattern is normal after a traumatic incident. He added that the decision to take time off was not a sign of panic or mistrust.
Mohol explained that pilots often need rest and mental stability to perform their duties safely. “After such a tragic event, it is natural for aviation professionals to feel emotional strain. Pilots carry the lives of hundreds of passengers, and they need mental clarity to make quick decisions,” he stated.
Mental Health Guidelines for Pilots
Pilot mental health is now a central issue in aviation worldwide. India’s DGCA had already rolled out mental health guidelines in February 2023 for pilots and air traffic controllers. These rules require regular mental health assessments during medical checkups. The DGCA also introduced peer-support programs to encourage pilots to seek help from colleagues and professionals.
Experts say that the recent leave requests may reflect a healthy cultural shift. In the past, pilots often hesitated to admit stress or anxiety because they feared losing their flying licenses. Today, airlines and regulators are trying to create safe spaces for crew members to share concerns without facing stigma.
How Air India Is Handling the Situation
Despite over 100 pilots taking leave, Air India has kept its operations stable. The airline adjusted schedules and reassigned duties to avoid disruptions. More importantly, it is offering counseling and emotional support to pilots who need it.
The DGCA, on its part, is focusing on the technical side. All Boeing 787-8 aircraft are undergoing detailed checks. The final crash report may result in stricter maintenance and training rules.
Public Reaction and Industry Concerns
The news of 112 pilots going on leave has triggered mixed reactions. Some people expressed worry about flight safety and pilot confidence. Others showed sympathy, noting the immense stress that comes with flying aircraft after such a tragedy. Aviation analysts argue that prioritizing mental health is crucial for safety. Stress and fatigue can affect decision-making in high-pressure situations like emergencies.
This event may also push India’s aviation sector to adopt stronger mental health protocols. Airlines might introduce mandatory counseling sessions, stress management workshops, and routine psychological assessments after major incidents.
Lessons for the Future
The AI-171 crash shows how human and technical factors are deeply linked in aviation. The pilots’ decision to take time off reflects responsibility, not weakness. By stepping back, they are ensuring that they return to the cockpit with a clear mind.
For the government and the DGCA, this tragedy is a call to strengthen mental health programs. Murlidhar Mohol’s statement signals that the ministry is aware of these challenges and willing to act. For passengers, the steps taken now will help restore confidence in India’s flagship airline.
Moving Forward
Air India is facing one of its toughest periods in recent years. Rebuilding trust will require both technical improvements and emotional healing for its staff. Pilots, cabin crew, and ground teams need a supportive environment to perform at their best.
The aviation industry, both in India and globally, is learning that mental health is as important as aircraft maintenance. A well-trained pilot also needs to be emotionally fit to ensure safety. With strong mental health frameworks and regular check-ins, airlines can prevent risks and improve overall performance.
As investigations into the AI-171 crash continue, Air India and regulators are expected to adopt new safety measures. For now, the leave taken by these 112 pilots serves as a reminder that mental recovery is an essential part of aviation safety.
