Should the Centre Induct More Experts for the Air India Boeing Crash Investigation?
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Synopsis
The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has raised serious concerns about the investigation into the Air India Boeing crash, urging the inclusion of more experts to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the incident. Discover how misinterpretations could lead to unjust blame in this ongoing investigation.
Key Takeaways
- The FIP emphasizes the need for further expert involvement in the investigation.
- Concerns have been raised regarding the preliminary report's implications of pilot error.
- Historical patterns show that initial pilot error claims have often been disproven.
- Data from flight recorders must be comprehensively evaluated.
- Respect for the crew's efforts during the incident is crucial.
New Delhi, July 17 (NationPress) The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has addressed a letter to the Civil Aviation Ministry, expressing concerns regarding the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau’s (AAIB) initial findings on the Air India crash in Ahmedabad. The preliminary report does not adequately address two credible technical scenarios, either of which could have led to an automated shutdown of both engines on the unfortunate Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
The pilots’ body has urged the ministry to incorporate additional subject matter experts in the investigation.
It has been alleged by the pilots’ association that the report implies pilot error without providing definitive evidence or investigating known technical failures seen in similar aircraft.
Furthermore, the letter points out that this incident is not the first time systemic issues with Boeing aircraft have been prematurely linked to pilot error or intentions, only for later investigations to contradict those claims.
To suggest pilot error in the preliminary report of the AI-171 crash, without comprehensive validation of known technical issues, risks misattribution of blame and repeating past mistakes in investigations.
The FIP has called for a reevaluation of mechanical faults, drawing from available data from the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, as well as previous Boeing advisories.
The pilots’ association has expressed discontent with various interpretations of the investigation, claiming the report selectively used paraphrased cockpit conversations to imply pilot error.
The report also highlighted a dialogue between the cockpit crew, where one pilot inquired, “Why did you cut off?”, to which the other replied, “I did not do so.”
The association has advocated for including airline pilot representatives in the investigation and has called for a thorough inquiry before assigning blame.
Meanwhile, the ALPA-India pilots’ group stated that the crew of the crashed AI-171 flight did everything possible to safeguard the passengers and should be treated with respect, rather than facing baseless character judgments.
“The crew of AI-171 did everything within their power—until their last moments—to protect the passengers on board and minimize harm. They deserve respect, not unfounded character judgments,” ALPA India stated.
“We reiterate our call for a discourse based on facts and respect,” the association concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to focus on the facts of the matter at hand. The investigation must be thorough, avoiding premature conclusions. The voices of experienced pilots should be heard, ensuring that the truth prevails without unjustly assigning blame. The integrity of the aviation industry depends on it.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What concerns does the Federation of Indian Pilots have regarding the AAIB report?
The FIP believes the report does not sufficiently explore two significant technical scenarios that could have caused the engine shutdowns, and it unfairly implies pilot error.
What actions has the FIP requested from the Civil Aviation Ministry?
The FIP has called for the inclusion of more subject matter experts in the investigation and a reevaluation of mechanical faults.
How does the FIP view the attribution of blame to pilot error?
The FIP argues that such attributions can lead to misplaced blame and calls for a thorough investigation before assigning fault.
