Air India renames AI171 to AI159 after tragic Ahmedabad cras

Air India has decided to discontinue flight number AI171 following Thursday’s devastating crash in Ahmedabad that killed 241 people. The airline will now operate the Ahmedabad–London route under the new number AI159, with the return leg designated AI160, officials confirmed on Friday.

The move mirrors global aviation practice where tragic flight numbers are retired to prevent triggering painful memories. “It helps disassociate the route from the tragedy,” said a former airline official, adding that the change will reflect soon across booking systems.

The AI171 flight, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed into a medical college hostel just seconds after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew. Only one person survived the impact. The aircraft was fully loaded with fuel and had barely reached 625 feet before descending uncontrollably.

Aviation authorities, including teams from India, the UK, and the US, are now investigating the crash. While the black box is yet to be confirmed as recovered, officials have urged the public not to speculate until all evidence is examined.