Air India Ahmedabad crash final report due in one month, says Aviation Minister Naidu
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Friday, 8 May said the final investigation report into the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad is "mostly" expected within one month, adding that the probe is in its final stages and is being conducted with complete transparency. Naidu made the remarks at a press conference in Gandhinagar after participating in the India Aircraft Leasing and Financing Summit 2.0 at GIFT City.
Investigation Status and Agencies Involved
The minister confirmed that multiple agencies are involved in the probe being led by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). "Investigation is in progress, and with full transparency and in the final stage. Since it was an international flight, any country can do the scrutiny on the report," Naidu said.
He further stated that the Centre was extending all possible support to investigators. "We are offering full resources to the investigation agency, which is AAIB. Mostly, the final report will come after a month," he told reporters.
What Happened on 12 June Last Year
The crash involved an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, which went down shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on 12 June last year. The aircraft came down in the Meghani Nagar area of Ahmedabad, hitting residential buildings and a hostel complex moments after departure.
According to official figures, 260 people were killed in the crash, including passengers, crew members, and people on the ground. Of the 242 people onboard, only one passenger survived. The aircraft was carrying 230 passengers along with two pilots and 10 cabin crew members.
Preliminary Findings and Safety Measures
Preliminary findings released earlier had indicated that the aircraft lost thrust shortly after take-off, leading investigators to examine engine systems and cockpit procedures in detail. Following the crash, aviation authorities ordered enhanced inspections of Boeing 787 aircraft operating in India and intensified oversight of maintenance procedures.
The AAIB launched a detailed investigation immediately after the incident, while the Centre also constituted a high-level committee to examine operational and safety-related aspects linked to the crash.
Compensation and Support for Affected Families
Minister Naidu said the government was closely monitoring assistance and compensation procedures for affected families. "We are monitoring the situation, and the compensation amount procedure is being prioritised. We are conveying to the airline to coordinate with the passengers," he said.
With the final report now expected within weeks, the findings are anticipated to have significant implications for aviation safety protocols and Boeing 787 operations across India.