Is the UK Joining the Investigation into the Ahmedabad Plane Crash?
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Synopsis
The tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 has prompted the UK and US to offer assistance to India in the investigation. This article explores the collaboration and implications of international support in aviation safety investigations following such incidents.
Key Takeaways
- The UK and US are offering vital support in the investigation of Air India flight AI171.
- 169 Indian and 53 British passengers were on board during the tragic incident.
- The UK's AAIB is participating as an expert entity in the investigation.
- The FAA stands ready to assist through coordination with the NTSB.
- Emergency services and support hotlines are available for affected families.
London/Washington, June 12 (NationPress) The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) of the United Kingdom and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States have both extended their support for the ongoing investigation led by Indian authorities into the unfortunate crash of Air India flight AI171, which was en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick (LGW).
"The UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has officially offered its expertise to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau in India. Furthermore, the UK AAIB will participate as an expert entity in the Indian safety investigation, in line with ICAO Annex 13 due to the presence of UK citizens aboard the aircraft," stated the AAIB.
"We are assembling a multidisciplinary investigation team to assist the Indian-led inquiry. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic event," it continued.
Tragically, at least 169 Indians and 53 British nationals were aboard the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that crashed shortly after departing from Ahmedabad airport.
Following the incident, the British High Commission in India announced that it is collaborating with local authorities to swiftly ascertain the facts and extend support to those involved.
Meanwhile, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in London advised British nationals needing consular assistance or those concerned about loved ones to reach out using the provided contact numbers.
The advisory also highlighted that the Government of Gujarat has set up an Emergency Centre for inquiries, while Air India established a dedicated hotline for passengers.
Heidi Alexander, the UK Secretary of State for Transport, expressed on X, "In line with the UK's ongoing support regarding this tragic incident, the AAIB will send a team to India to assist local authorities in their investigation. I am receiving consistent updates on the situation, and my thoughts remain with everyone involved."
The AAIB undertakes investigations into civil aircraft accidents and serious incidents within the UK and its territories.
Inspectors from the AAIB operate across four key disciplines: operations, engineering, recorded data, and human factors. For field investigations, the branch dispatches a small team of inspectors (at least two) chosen from these areas to the crash site or the aircraft's location after a serious incident.
"A correspondence investigation into a serious incident involving a commercial aircraft may be more complex, potentially including the retrieval of flight data recorders and evidence analysis in our laboratories. Typically, correspondence investigations are published approximately three months following an incident," the AAIB clarified.
The Federal Aviation Administration of the United States also issued a statement regarding Air India Flight AI171, affirming its readiness to deploy a team in coordination with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)—an independent agency responsible for civil transportation accident investigations.
"The FAA is in communication with the NTSB concerning Air India flight AI171, which was involved in an accident in India on Thursday, June 12. When international incidents occur, the governing country leads the investigation. Should assistance be requested, the NTSB serves as the official US representative, with the FAA providing technical support. We are prepared to send a team immediately in collaboration with the NTSB," stated the FAA.
Point of View
It is crucial for nations to unite in their efforts to ensure aviation safety. International collaboration is essential not only in determining the cause of such accidents but also in supporting the victims' families. We commend the UK and US for their proactive roles in this investigation.
NationPress
13/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Air India flight AI171 crash?
The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation by Indian authorities, with assistance from the UK and US agencies.
How many people were on board Air India flight AI171?
There were at least 169 Indians and 53 British nationals aboard the flight.
What support is the UK providing in the investigation?
The UK has dispatched a team from the AAIB to support the Indian-led investigation as part of international cooperation.
What role does the FAA play in the investigation?
The FAA is prepared to send a team in coordination with the NTSB to assist in the investigation, providing technical support.
How can families of victims seek assistance?
Families can reach out to the British High Commission or use the dedicated hotline set up by Air India for support.
