AAIB Condemns Media Speculation

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has strongly criticized international media outlets for their “selective,” “unverified,” and “irresponsible” reporting on the Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, which resulted in the tragic loss of 274 lives. The AAIB’s statement comes in response to a report by the Wall Street Journal, which cited the bureau’s preliminary findings and suggested that audio from the cockpit voice recorder indicated the senior pilot, Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, intentionally cut fuel to the engines, leading to a mid-air loss of thrust and subsequent crash.

Call for Responsible Journalism

In a sharply-worded statement, the AAIB urged media outlets to refrain from spreading premature narratives that could undermine the integrity of the ongoing investigation. The bureau emphasized that its preliminary report is intended to outline “WHAT” happened, not to draw conclusions. The AAIB appealed for patience from all parties until the final report is released, stressing that the investigation is still underway.

Emphasizing Compassion and Sensitivity

The AAIB also highlighted the importance of compassion in reporting on such tragic incidents. It called for respect towards the families of deceased passengers, crew members, and others affected by the crash. The bureau warned against creating public anxiety or distrust regarding the safety of Indian airlines during this sensitive time.

Federation of Indian Pilots Responds

The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has also condemned the Wall Street Journal’s report, labeling it as “baseless.” FIP chief CS Randhawa stated that the AAIB’s preliminary report did not mention any deliberate action by the pilots to turn off fuel supply switches. He criticized the implication that pilot error was to blame and vowed legal action against such claims.

Safety Checks on Boeing Aircraft

Following the preliminary findings, domestic airlines operating Boeing jets were instructed by the Director-General of Civil Aviation to conduct checks on fuel control switches. Air India has since completed these checks and reported no issues with their Boeing 787 aircraft.