Is the Air India crash investigation making progress?
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Synopsis
The ongoing investigation into the Air India crash that occurred on June 12 is crucial for ensuring safety in aviation. The AAIB's meticulous examination of the incident aims to identify causes and prevent future accidents. Stay updated on the latest developments and insights from the aviation sector.
Key Takeaways
- AAIB is investigating the Air India crash to identify causes.
- Investigations aim to enhance aviation safety, not to assign blame.
- The DGCA conducted 146 audits on major airlines this year.
- Thorough guidelines are established for safe aircraft operation.
- Mayday calls indicate serious emergencies in aviation.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (NationPress) The investigation into the tragic Air India crash that occurred on June 12 in Ahmedabad is still underway. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is tasked with thoroughly examining all relevant aspects to uncover the probable causes and contributing factors of the flight AI 171 incident, as reported to Parliament on Thursday.
The AAIB has issued a preliminary report based on the factual data available, which does not draw any conclusions.
"The primary aim of investigating an accident or incident is to prevent future occurrences and not to assign blame or liability. All investigations under these regulations are executed in a fair, impartial, and judicious manner, adhering to the pertinent standards of Annex 13," stated Murlidhar Mohol, Minister of State for Civil Aviation, in a written response in the Lok Sabha.
He further revealed that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has carried out 146 maintenance audits of major airlines this year (up to July).
Over the past three years, the aviation regulator has completed 683 audits of scheduled airlines, according to the minister.
The DGCA has implemented comprehensive guidelines to guarantee the safe operation and maintenance of aircraft. Operators must adhere to the directives issued by manufacturers, such as Service Bulletins, Airworthiness Directives (ADs), and Maintenance Planning Documents (MPDs), as mentioned by the minister.
The DGCA follows an audit calendar to ensure ongoing oversight of both scheduled and non-scheduled airline operators. Any deviations or rescheduling are treated with urgency and reported accordingly, he added.
Mohol previously disclosed that this year, there have been six aircraft engine shutdown incidents and three Mayday call situations.
IndiGo and SpiceJet each reported two engine shutdown incidents, while Air India and Alliance Air experienced one incident each.
Three Mayday calls were made, including one from the Air India aircraft (flight AI 171 bound for London Gatwick) that crashed into a building shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12. Both IndiGo and Air India Express each reported one Mayday incident.
A Mayday call is an internationally recognized distress signal, commonly utilized in both aviation and maritime emergencies.
Point of View
I assert that the ongoing investigation into the Air India crash exemplifies our commitment to aviation safety. It is essential to prioritize thorough investigations that aim to prevent future tragedies while ensuring accountability and transparency within the aviation sector. Our nation deserves a robust and trustworthy aviation system.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the Air India crash investigation?
The investigation was initiated following the tragic crash of flight AI 171 in Ahmedabad on June 12, which raised concerns about aviation safety.
What is the role of the AAIB in this investigation?
The AAIB is responsible for examining all aspects of the crash to identify probable causes and contributing factors, focusing on preventing future accidents.
How many audits has the DGCA conducted this year?
The DGCA has conducted 146 maintenance audits of major airlines up to July this year.
What is the significance of the preliminary report released by the AAIB?
The preliminary report provides factual insights into the incident but does not draw any conclusions, maintaining an impartial approach.
What should operators comply with according to DGCA guidelines?
Operators are required to comply with manufacturer-issued guidelines, including Service Bulletins, Airworthiness Directives, and Maintenance Planning Documents.
