Preliminary Findings of Air India Dreamliner Crash Released

The preliminary investigation report of the Air India Dreamliner crash in Ahmedabad has been released, sparking widespread speculation. The crash occurred on June 12, when the aircraft collided with a medical college’s hostel just 32 seconds after takeoff. Tragically, all but one of the 241 passengers and at least 20 individuals on the ground perished. The initial report from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) highlights that both engines shut down mid-air shortly after takeoff, with fuel cutoff switches moving to ‘CUTOFF’ position almost simultaneously. Cockpit voice recordings reveal a conversation between pilots questioning the unexpected cutoff.

Challenges in Aircraft Crash Investigations

Group Captain Aurobindo Handa (retd), a former director general of the AAIB, emphasized the complexity of aircraft crash investigations. Having overseen over 100 investigations, including the 2020 Air India Express crash in Kozhikode, he noted that initial and final findings often differ significantly. The charred state of the Dreamliner poses additional challenges for investigators, making it difficult to determine the exact cause swiftly.

Timeline and Methodology for Final Report

The final report’s timeline remains uncertain. Although the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) recommends a 12-month period for such investigations, Group Captain Handa cautioned against expecting quick results. The AAIB will employ a methodical approach, simulating various scenarios to identify potential causes. Despite having access to flight data from startup to crash, the investigation’s thorough nature means it could extend beyond the ICAO’s recommended timeframe.

Implications and Expectations

The stakes are high in this investigation due to the significant loss of life and property. While efforts will be made to expedite the process, Group Captain Handa stressed that no definitive timeline can be provided until more data is analyzed. He urged patience from the public and media as investigators work meticulously to uncover the truth behind this tragic incident.