Should Pilots' Union Join AAIB Probe into Air India Plane Crash?
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Synopsis
The Airline Pilots’ Association of India is calling for transparency in the investigation of the Air India AI-171 crash. President Captain Sam Thomas argues that the initial findings unfairly target pilots. This situation raises critical questions regarding accountability and transparency in aviation safety investigations.
Key Takeaways
- ALPA is advocating for transparency in the Air India AI-171 crash investigation.
- The preliminary report suggests a focus on pilot culpability.
- Concerns about the investigation's secrecy have been raised.
- Expert opinions highlight the improbability of pilot error during critical flight phases.
- Immediate reforms in the investigation process are being demanded by ALPA.
New Delhi, July 12 (NationPress) The Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA) has voiced serious concerns regarding the initial findings released by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which seem to place blame on the pilots of the tragic aircraft. ALPA India President Captain Sam Thomas has formally requested that the government allow their participation in the ongoing investigation into the Air India AI-171 incident to ensure transparency in the inquiry.
The unfortunate event occurred on June 12 when Air India flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after departing from Ahmedabad, resulting in the loss of 260 lives—241 individuals on board and 19 on the ground.
“We are concerned that the investigation is being guided by a presumption of pilot culpability, and we vehemently oppose this narrative,” Captain Thomas asserted in his statement.
He reiterated the request for inclusion in the investigation, even if only as observers, to guarantee the necessary transparency.
Captain Thomas also expressed unease regarding the secrecy surrounding the investigations, which appear to be conducted while keeping pilots uninformed. ALPA criticized the AAIB for disseminating documents devoid of official signatures and called for immediate reforms.
“We are astonished that such a critical document was shared with the media without the endorsement of a responsible party. In light of these concerns, we urge authorities to allow us to participate as observers to ensure transparency in the investigation,” the statement elaborated.
According to the preliminary report from the AAIB, both fuel control switches, which supply fuel to the engines of Air India Flight 171, were turned off in rapid succession, leading to the shutdown of both engines.
A recording from the cockpit revealed one pilot questioning the other about the fuel cutoff, to which the second pilot replied that “he did not” do so, as stated in the report.
In related comments, aviation expert Mark Martin informed IANS that no pilot would intentionally tamper with controls in the cockpit while focusing on critical instruments during takeoff and landing.
“It is highly improbable that any pilot, particularly during takeoff, would engage with switches located behind the thrust levers. The focus would be on raising the landing gear or flaps, which are located on the front panel,” the expert noted, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive investigation report to be released.
Point of View
It's imperative to acknowledge the pressing concerns raised by the Airline Pilots’ Association. The investigation into the Air India AI-171 crash must be conducted with utmost integrity and transparency. It is essential to avoid any premature conclusions that may unjustly implicate pilots, as this could undermine trust in aviation safety protocols. The nation deserves a thorough and unbiased investigation.
NationPress
13/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ALPA's main concern regarding the investigation?
ALPA is concerned that the investigation is presuming pilot guilt based on preliminary findings and is advocating for their inclusion to ensure transparency.
What happened during the Air India AI-171 flight?
The Air India AI-171 flight, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad, resulting in 260 fatalities.
What did the AAIB preliminary report indicate?
The AAIB report indicated that both fuel control switches were turned off in quick succession, causing both engines to shut down.
Who is Mark Martin, and what did he say?
Mark Martin is an aviation expert who stated that it is unlikely for pilots to tamper with cockpit switches during critical flight phases like takeoff.
What reforms did ALPA call for?
ALPA called for immediate reforms regarding the release of investigation documents and the overall transparency of the investigation process.
