The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, renowned for its cutting-edge design and fuel efficiency, has long faced scrutiny over recurring technical and safety issues worldwide. On Thursday, an Air India aircraft of this model &mdash; operating as Flight AI 171 &mdash; crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad en route to London&rsquo;s Gatwick Airport. The plane was carrying 242 individuals, including 10 crew members.
Though widely deployed for long-haul international travel and considered one of the most advanced commercial jets, the Dreamliner has had a checkered safety record.
In 2013, the global Dreamliner fleet was grounded following multiple incidents involving lithium-ion battery fires. Notably, a Japan Airlines jet caught fire while parked in Boston, and another Dreamliner made an emergency landing in Japan due to a similar issue. These cases led the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to suspend all Dreamliner flights until Boeing implemented a battery system redesign.
More recently, in 2024, Boeing came under fire again after whistleblower Sam Salehpour, a company engineer, alerted the US Senate to structural flaws in the Dreamliner&rsquo;s fuselage. He cited improperly assembled parts and gaps that could lead to premature wear and structural risks. The FAA initiated a fresh investigation, which remains ongoing.
While the aircraft is promoted as one of the safest models in the skies, its track record includes several high-profile technical incidents. In March 2025, a Boeing 787-9 operated by LATAM Airlines experienced a sudden drop in altitude mid-flight, injuring 50 passengers. The cause was traced to a cockpit seat malfunction.
Other issues reported over the years include engine icing, fuel system leaks, electrical malfunctions, and generator failures.
Data from Flightradar24 shows the aircraft involved in Thursday&rsquo;s crash first flew in 2013 and joined the Air India fleet in January 2014.
The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation by Air India and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The central government has assured full support for ongoing rescue and relief operations, while casualty figures are still being confirmed.

Air India Dreamliner crashes in Ahmedabad; aircraft model has history of global technical issues

Boeing 787-8 Crash Revives Safety Concerns

Air India Dreamliner crashes in Ahmedabad; aircraft model has history of global technical issues

June 12, 2025 | 23:36 IST

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