Air India CEO Makes Emotional Visit to AI-171 Crash Site in Ahmedabad Amid Ongoing Investigation

Ahmedabad, June 13, 2025:
In the aftermath of the tragic AI-171 crash, Air India CEO Campbell Wilson visited the AI-171 crash site in Ahmedabad early Thursday morning. His presence marks a critical step in the airline’s commitment to transparency and immediate action as the investigation unfolds.

The AI-171 crash site has been under heavy scrutiny since the Air India aircraft made an emergency landing, resulting in significant damage and casualties. The airline confirmed that CEO Campbell Wilson arrived to personally oversee the response and express solidarity with affected families and ground personnel.

An Emotional Yet Necessary Move

Wilson’s visit to the AI-171 crash site has drawn both national and international attention. Described by staff as “deeply emotional,” his presence is viewed as a strong message of responsibility and empathy from the airline’s leadership. He met with emergency teams, local authorities, and Air India staff stationed at the site, emphasizing the company’s priority on passenger safety and accountability.

Sources from Air India confirmed that Wilson also inspected the wreckage and interacted with investigators on the scene. The visit was not a mere formality but a hands-on assessment to ensure all recovery and inquiry protocols are being followed with diligence.

Ground Report from AI-171 Crash Site

Located near the runway of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, the AI-171 crash site remains sealed off as a restricted zone. Emergency services are actively working with aviation safety teams and civil authorities to manage debris and recover vital components of the aircraft’s black box systems.

Preliminary reports suggest that a technical failure may have been involved, but official statements are pending until a full inquiry is complete. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and an Air India safety team are jointly conducting the investigation.

Support for Affected Families and Staff

During his visit, Wilson assured families of the injured that Air India would provide complete support—both financially and emotionally. A special helpdesk has been set up in Ahmedabad, and a 24/7 hotline is available for passenger families seeking updates.

“We stand with every family affected by this tragic event. Our priority remains clear: to assist those impacted, ensure accountability, and take every step to prevent such incidents in the future,” Wilson said at the AI-171 crash site.

Industry Reaction and Public Sentiment

The aviation industry has responded with concern and solidarity. Competing airlines, former aviation officials, and civil society groups have called for heightened aircraft inspections and a full safety audit of aging fleets. Social media saw hashtags like #AI171Crash and #AirIndia trending across platforms.

Public sentiment remains mixed. While some lauded Wilson’s visit as a responsible act, others questioned the airline’s maintenance protocols and risk assessments. The visit to the AI-171 crash site was seen by many as a necessary, albeit overdue, gesture to restore some degree of faith in Air India’s safety record.

Next Steps in the Investigation

Authorities have not yet disclosed the full list of causes leading to the accident. However, the CEO’s presence at the AI-171 crash site adds a layer of urgency to the matter. Internal and independent safety reviews are expected in the coming days, with an initial findings report likely to be released within a week.

In the meantime, all aircraft of the same fleet model have been temporarily grounded as a precautionary measure. Air India’s crisis response unit has also launched a parallel review of emergency landing procedures and pilot training protocols.

Conclusion

The AI-171 crash site in Ahmedabad has become a sobering reminder of the critical importance of aviation safety, maintenance vigilance, and executive accountability. Campbell Wilson’s visit, though emotionally charged, sends a strong message: Air India is not backing away from its responsibilities.

This visit is more than just damage control—it is a moment of reckoning and a step toward rebuilding trust.