Over 100 Air India Pilots Call in Sick After AI171 Crash, Says MoS Civil Aviation

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has shared that Air India saw a small rise in pilot sick leaves across its fleets following the AI-171 crash. On June 16, just a few days after the accident, 112 Air India pilots reported being unwell and didn’t fly. These included 51 senior pilots (Commanders) and 61 co-pilots (First Officers).

This was revealed by Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol in response to a question from BJP MP Jai Prakash about whether there was a mass sick leave after the AI171 incident.

DGCA Issues Mental Health Guidelines

Earlier, on February 22, 2023, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had issued a medical circular (01 of 2023) focused on the mental health of pilots and air traffic controllers. The circular gives specific instructions to airline operators—both scheduled and non-scheduled—as well as to DGCA-approved medical professionals on how to handle mental health matters.

Better Mental Health Checks Recommended

Minister Mohol also said that quick and effective mental health assessments should be used by approved medical examiners during the regular Class 1/2/3 medical checks. He added that airlines should also introduce special training programs for pilots and air traffic staff to help them identify and handle mental health issues.

Peer Support Programme Suggested

The Ministry further advised all aviation organisations—including private operators, flying schools, and the Airports Authority of India (AAI)—to start a Peer Support Programme (PSP). This program should be non-punitive and supportive, helping staff like pilots and ATCOs to recognise and manage emotional or psychological difficulties.