Aviation Safety and Investigation of Air India Flight 171 Crash
Overview of the Incident
The crash of Air India Flight 171 on June 12, 2025, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, has raised significant international attention and concerns about aviation safety in India. Out of 242 passengers, only one survived, and 19 people on the ground were killed.
Significance and Global Context
- India is a signatory to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and must adhere to its standards for aircraft accident investigation.
- The investigation involved international bodies such as the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the U.K.'s Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
Key Findings and Investigation Challenges
- The preliminary report identified that the fuel control switches of both engines were manually moved to the cutoff position shortly after takeoff.
- This mechanical action could not result from electrical or software failures, highlighting potential human intervention.
- There were significant differences in findings between U.S. and Indian authorities, impacting the transparency and effectiveness of the investigation.
Historical Context of Aviation Safety in India
- India has experienced three fatal aviation accidents in the past 15 years, with concerns over compliance with ICAO standards.
- Previous reports, such as the Mangalore airport incident, have been criticized for covering up safety violations.
Concerns Over Regulatory Oversight
- The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has faced criticism for succumbing to political pressures, compromising passenger safety.
- Examples include delayed safety measures and operational dangers at airports like Kozhikode.
International Comparisons and Best Practices
The NTSB and FAA are noted for their prompt and transparent communication following crashes, such as the immediate press briefings and directives after the UPS cargo MD-11 crash in November 2025.
Speculations and Diplomatic Implications
- Speculations around the crash have been fueled by social media narratives, with criticisms of the AAIB's handling of the investigation.
- The Supreme Court of India emphasized the importance of finding the crash's cause rather than assigning blame.
- India's credibility in aviation safety investigations is at risk due to perceived isolation and lack of transparency.
Conclusion
For India to maintain its standing in global aviation safety, it must embrace transparency, involve foreign experts, and adhere to international safety standards. The crash of AI 171 serves as a critical reminder of the importance of rigorous and transparent aviation safety protocols.
