The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has submitted its preliminary report on the tragic Air India Flight AI-171 crash to the Ministry of Civil Aviation. According to top government sources, this report was submitted on 8th July and includes early findings related to the crash that took place last month in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
The AI-171 flight was scheduled to fly from Ahmedabad to London but crashed just 30 seconds after takeoff, resulting in one of the worst aviation disasters in India in recent times. The crash led to the death of at least 275 people, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.
What’s in the Preliminary Report?
According to sources, the five-page initial report provides key insights into:
- Flight data recorder (black box) analysis
- Actions taken by the crew during and before takeoff
- Weather conditions at the time of departure
- Engine and mechanical performance of the aircraft
- Condition of the wreckage retrieved from the crash site
This report is not the final conclusion, but a technical groundwork that helps investigators identify possible causes behind the disaster. It outlines the sequence of events that occurred right before the aircraft lost control and struck a hostel building near BJ Medical College.
Crash Details
The Air India AI-171 flight crashed on June 12, hitting a hostel building just moments after it took off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The crash claimed the lives of 241 of the 242 people on board and at least 34 others on the ground, making it a national tragedy.
Advanced Technology and Global Team in the Investigation
The investigation is being conducted by AAIB using state-of-the-art technology from its lab in New Delhi. The team includes experts from:
- Indian Air Force (IAF)
- Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
- National Transportation Safety Board (USA)
- Air Traffic Control (ATC) experts
- Boeing and General Electric (GE) representatives
- Aviation medicine specialists
This inquiry is being handled as per international norms defined under ICAO Annex 13 and India’s Aircraft Accident Rules, 2017.
The black box, which holds flight data, was successfully retrieved and accessed by June 25. A duplicate black box (called the golden chassis) was used to verify the original’s data for accuracy.
Political Oversight and Accountability
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), led by K.C. Venugopal, has decided to seek oral evidence from various civil aviation bodies and stakeholders. This includes:
- Ministry of Civil Aviation
- Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
- Airports Authority of India (AAI)
- Airport operators and major airline companies
PAC’s agenda covers regulation of tariffs, fees, and service charges, but sources say air safety will be a key point of discussion, given the seriousness of the crash.
On July 9, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism, and Culture, headed by Sanjay Jha (JDU), will also meet the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s Secretary to review overall civil aviation safety.
Ongoing Support from the Government
The Ministry of Civil Aviation is closely supporting AAIB in the investigation. As more data from the black boxes and wreckage gets analyzed, a final report with detailed conclusions and recommendations will be shared in the coming months. Meanwhile, all concerned departments are on high alert, ensuring compliance with safety procedures and flight standards.
Conclusion
The Ahmedabad Air India AI-171 crash has shocked the nation. With over 275 lives lost, it has triggered an urgent call to review aviation safety in India. While the preliminary report is a crucial step, the full-scale investigation is still underway, involving both Indian and international experts. The upcoming meetings of Parliamentary committees could pave the way for stricter safety protocols, better technical training, and perhaps a new national aviation safety policy.
FAQs
Q1. Is this the final report on the Air India AI-171 crash?
No. This is only a preliminary report. The final, detailed report will be released after the full investigation is completed.
Q2. Who is investigating the crash?
The investigation is being led by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) with support from national and international experts.
Q3. How many people died in the crash?
At least 275 people, including passengers and people on the ground, lost their lives.
Q4. Was there any technical failure in the aircraft?
Initial findings suggest damage to engines and mechanical components, but full confirmation will come in the final report.
Q5. What actions are being taken by the government?
The Parliamentary Committees are reviewing civil aviation safety. The Ministry is assisting AAIB and may consider new safety measures based on findings.