Air India, the second-largest airline in India, has reported a significant spike in technical incidents, reaching the highest level seen in the last 14 months. This increase includes various technical safety issues such as engine oil and fuel leaks. The airline has come under scrutiny from safety authorities following a crash in Ahmedabad last June that resulted in the tragic loss of 260 lives, many due to impacts with buildings during the incident. Since the crash, Air India has faced mounting pressure to improve its safety record and ensure better operational practices.

In January, Air India recorded 1.09 technical incidents for every 1,000 flights, a concerning rise compared to just 0.26 incidents per 1,000 flights reported in December 2024. This alarming increase indicates a worrying trend in the airline's operational safety, highlighted by a document authored by industry insiders. With over 17,500 flights operated in January alone, the operational scale puts more emphasis on the necessity for stringent monitoring and improvements in safety protocols at Air India.

The airline is reportedly aware of these challenges, having acknowledged in December the urgent need for enhancements to its safety measures. The focus now turns to how Air India will address these safety issues effectively, as continued reports of technical incidents could further tarnish its reputation and pose risks to passenger safety. Stakeholders are watching closely to see if the company can implement the required changes to restore confidence in its operations.