After the recent Air India incident, the Ministry of Civil Aviation in India has launched a comprehensive safety review focusing on airline performance and passenger support systems. Here are the key directives issued to improve ground operations:

• Airports must work closely with airlines to promptly resolve passenger issues at the ground level.
• Ensure availability of food, water, and seating facilities at terminals, especially during delays or congestions.
• Station adequate staff at key touchpoints to proactively handle passenger grievances.
• Provide full support to airlines facing operational disruptions, including assistance with gate changes and logistical arrangements.
• Strengthen wildlife hazard management to ensure a safe airport environment by deterring birds and stray animals.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu chaired a detailed video conference with airport directors nationwide to assess how disruptions caused by weather changes, post-accident inspections, and airspace closures are being handled. The minister also held a high-level meeting with Air India's chairman and managing director to address concerns about operational continuity, transparency in public communication, and passenger safety.

Due to conflicts in the Middle East and night flying restrictions in Europe, Air India is facing reduced aircraft availability. The airline has decided to temporarily scale down some operations and restructure flight schedules. Passengers affected by cancellations or changes will be rebooked or offered full refunds. Air India has been urged to enhance ground coordination and improve communication clarity and empathy with passengers.

Meetings were also conducted with senior management from SpiceJet, IndiGo, and Akasa to review fleet readiness, safety protocols, passenger experience, and communication strategies. The minister announced that such operational reviews would now be a regular practice.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has initiated a formal probe into the Air India flight crash near Ahmedabad. A multi-disciplinary team began investigations on June 12 and recovered both black box sets from the site. International teams from the NTSB and aircraft manufacturers have joined the probe as per ICAO guidelines.

The ministry confirmed that recovery work and evidence collection have been completed, and further analysis is underway. It emphasized its commitment to transparency and following all safety and investigative protocols. The ministry clarified that any decision on the location for black box analysis would be made after evaluating technical and security concerns.

All stakeholders have been urged to refrain from speculation on sensitive issues and allow the investigation to proceed with the necessary seriousness and professionalism.