Aftermath of Tragedy: Air India to Retire AI171 Flight Number After Fatal Accident

Following the tragic crash of AI171 on June 12, Air India will retire the flight number AI171, impacting the Ahmedabad to London Gatwick route. The flight numbers AI171 and AI172 will be replaced by AI159 and AI160 starting June 17, 2025. The incident, which involved a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, resulted in over 274 fatalities and occurred shortly after takeoff, with the aircraft crashing in a densely populated area of Ahmedabad. The flight carried a total of 242 people. Various government agencies are investigating the crash, including the DGCA, NSG, and NIA. The investigation involves examining the black box and conducting forensic analysis to determine the cause. Despite the tragedy, service on the London-Ahmedabad route will continue under new flight numbers.