Is the AAIB Report on the Air India Crash Definitive?
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Synopsis
The investigation into the Air India AI 171 crash is still in its early stages, according to Minister Murlidhar Mohol. While the AAIB has made progress, he cautions that definitive conclusions cannot yet be drawn. Stay updated as the investigation unfolds!
Key Takeaways
- The AAIB report on the Air India crash is still in preliminary stages.
- Murlidhar Mohol emphasizes the need for caution in drawing conclusions.
- Investigation includes reviewing CCTV footage and exploring sabotage possibilities.
- Both fuel control switches were turned off prior to engine failure.
- Expert opinions highlight the unlikelihood of pilot error during takeoff.
Pune, July 12 (NationPress) The Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, stated on Saturday that the findings from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) regarding the tragic Air India plane crash are still at a preliminary stage, asserting that “we cannot say anything definite at this point”.
In a conversation with IANS about the initial findings from the AAIB concerning the fatal incident involving Air India flight AI 171 — a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that tragically went down shortly after departing from Ahmedabad on June 12 — the minister emphasized that this is merely a preliminary report and that “I believe further investigation is still underway”.
“Nevertheless, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has conducted admirable work. In the past, if a helicopter accident occurred, we had to send the black box abroad for analysis. Now, we have the capabilities within our own country,” the minister remarked.
Mohol reiterated that since this is a preliminary report, “we cannot say anything definite at this point”.
“Their investigation is ongoing. It will be appropriate to comment once the final report is released,” he added while speaking to IANS.
Last month, Mohol had indicated that the AAIB was exploring all possibilities regarding the Air India AI 171 crash, including potential sabotage.
“Every angle is being examined, including any possible sabotage. CCTV footage is under review, and various agencies are involved,” he was quoted as stating, referring to the crash as a “rare case”.
The AAIB’s preliminary report revealed that both fuel control switches supplying fuel to the engines of Air India flight 171 were turned off in quick succession, resulting in the shutdown of both engines. One pilot could be heard on the cockpit voice recorder questioning the other about the fuel cutoff, to which the other pilot replied that “he did not”, according to the report.
Leading aviation consultant Mark Martin noted, “It is highly unlikely that any pilot, especially during takeoff, would want to meddle with switches behind the thrust levers. At best, the focus would be on raising the landing gear, which is situated in the front panel of the cockpit, or raising the flaps.” He emphasized the importance of waiting for a comprehensive investigation report to emerge.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach the investigation into the Air India crash with caution and patience. The preliminary findings by the AAIB are just the beginning, and we must await the final report for a complete understanding of the incident. A thorough investigation is vital to ensure accountability and enhance aviation safety in the future.
NationPress
13/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AAIB report about?
The AAIB report includes preliminary findings regarding the Air India flight AI 171 crash, which occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad.
Who is Murlidhar Mohol?
Murlidhar Mohol is the Minister of State for Civil Aviation in India.
What did the AAIB find in their preliminary report?
The AAIB indicated that both fuel control switches were turned off in quick succession, shutting down both engines of the aircraft.
Is there a possibility of sabotage in the Air India crash?
Yes, the investigation is exploring all angles, including potential sabotage.
When will the final report be released?
The final report's release date has not been specified, as the investigation is still ongoing.
