Air India Pilot Suffers Panic Attack Hours After Tragic Crash That Killed 279 — Airline Faces Growing Emotional Toll on Flight Crews

Just one day after the catastrophic crash of Air India Flight AI 171 in Ahmedabad, which tragically claimed the lives of 279 people, a separate incident has cast a spotlight on the profound psychological impact the disaster is having on airline personnel. An Air India pilot preparing for a routine long-haul flight experienced a severe panic attack moments before takeoff, forcing a last-minute crew change and causing a delay of over two hours.

The flight, operating on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner—the same model involved in the fatal AI 171 crash—was scheduled to depart from Delhi International Airport en route to Copenhagen, Denmark. As the plane was lining up on the runway, ready to begin the 9-hour-and-20-minute journey, the pilot suddenly became overwhelmed with anxiety and alerted air traffic control that a member of the crew was unwell. The aircraft was promptly returned to the terminal, and a replacement pilot was dispatched to take over command.

According to sources familiar with the situation, the pilot’s panic attack was believed to be triggered by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) linked directly to the trauma of the recent disaster. One insider revealed, “Pilots flying wide-bodied aircraft like the Boeing 787 have been deeply shaken since last week’s crash. Some have reported recurring nightmares and flashbacks, making it difficult to focus on their duties. One pilot even confided that he wasn’t sure if he would ever be able to get back into the cockpit again.”

The incident highlights the mounting emotional strain on Air India’s flight crews, as they continue to grapple with the psychological aftermath of the devastating accident. The airline has reportedly taken immediate steps to provide support, urging pilots and crew members to seek professional help if they feel distressed or overwhelmed. This move reflects a growing recognition within the aviation industry of the importance of mental health resources for those operating under intense pressure.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited the sole survivor of the Flight AI 171 crash in hospital, emphasizing the nation’s grief and commitment to addressing aviation safety and crew welfare. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through India and the global aviation community, prompting rigorous investigations and safety reviews.

Rescue teams continue to work at the crash site in Ahmedabad, combing through debris and recovering remains, while families of victims seek answers and solace.

The emotional and operational repercussions of the crash are far-reaching. Beyond the immediate loss of life, the psychological impact on pilots and crew raises concerns about ongoing safety and morale within Air India’s ranks. Industry experts point out that the trauma experienced by flight crews following major accidents can sometimes affect performance, making mental health support a crucial component of airline safety protocols.

As the investigation into Flight AI 171 progresses, airlines worldwide are reminded of the human cost behind aviation disasters—not just in lives lost but in the toll on those who keep the skies safe every day.