Has the Government Decided on Sending Air India’s Crashed Plane Black Boxes Abroad for Decoding?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- No decision has been made about sending the black boxes abroad.
- The AAIB is conducting the investigation.
- Transparency and cooperation are emphasized by the Ministry.
- Speculation on the investigation is discouraged.
- Passenger safety remains the top priority.
New Delhi, June 19 (NationPress) The Ministry of Civil Aviation has confirmed that a decision regarding the international transfer of the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and digital flight data recorder (DFDR) from the crashed AI171 flight has not yet been made. This clarification was issued on Thursday amidst various reports suggesting that these crucial devices are being sent abroad for examination.
"Media reports have indicated that the CVR/DFDR from the ill-fated AI171 flight is being dispatched overseas for analysis. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will determine the decoding location of the flight recorders after a careful evaluation of all technical, safety, and security factors," stated a ministry announcement.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has also called on all parties involved to "abstain from speculation regarding these sensitive issues and to allow the investigative process to unfold with the seriousness and professionalism it necessitates."
A combined unit of the DFDR and CVR was retrieved from the crash site on June 13, the day following the incident, while another set was discovered on June 16. Notably, this aircraft model is equipped with two sets of black boxes, as mentioned in the statement.
The ministry is dedicated to maintaining complete transparency throughout the ongoing investigation, adhering to mandated protocols and norms for the sake of passenger safety and convenience, as emphasized in the statement.
The investigation led by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau regarding the tragic Air India crash is advancing steadily, with all essential support from local authorities and agencies. Key recovery operations, including site documentation and evidence gathering, have been finalized, and further analysis is currently in progress, according to the statement.
An interdisciplinary team from the AAIB has initiated an investigation into the crash that occurred on June 12, as ordered by the Director General (DG) of the AAIB. Teams from the NTSB and OEM have arrived to support the AAIB in accordance with ICAO protocols, as noted in the official announcement.
The ministry stressed the importance of collaboration and responsiveness to maintain passenger confidence and ensure operational stability, which has been a fundamental aspect of Indian aviation over the years.
The government remains devoted to upholding the highest safety standards across all aspects of civil aviation. The safety and comfort of passengers is the utmost priority for the Ministry of Civil Aviation, as stated.