The Modi government has now released new information on the matter. On Thursday, the government informed Parliament that approximately 112 Air India pilots went on sick leave simultaneously four days after the accident.
1700 Pilots Work at Air India
It is noteworthy that Air India employs approximately 1,700 pilots. On average, around 50 pilots report sick and take leave daily. The government stated that an increase in sick leave cases has been observed in the company following the accident. Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, explained that Air India saw a rise in sick leave cases after the AI-171 accident. On 16 June 2025, a total of 112 pilots reported sick and went on sick leave, including 51 Commanders (P1) and 61 First Officers (P2).
Question Raised by BJP MP
It should be noted that BJP MP Jay Prakash had questioned in the House whether it was true that a large number of Air India pilots reported sick and went on leave after the flight accident. He also asked if the government had taken any concrete steps to alleviate their stress. Murlidhar Mohol responded to this. Mohol explained that while the number of those initially taking sick leave was low, it peaked on 16 June. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has already issued a medical circular regarding the mental health of flight crew and Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs), setting guidelines for operators (scheduled and non-scheduled) and DGCA-panelled medical examiners.
Furthermore, the government has also launched a separate, customized training capsule for flight crew and ATCOs to assist in managing mental health conditions.
