Tragedy in Ahmedabad Raises Questions
The catastrophic crash of Air India flight AI 171 in Ahmedabad on June 12 has reignited debates over aviation safety and aircraft reliability in India. The London-bound Boeing Dreamliner plunged into the BJ Medical College hostel building just seconds after take-off, claiming 260 lives—241 passengers and crew onboard and 19 people on the ground. The incident, among the deadliest in India’s recent aviation history, has prompted multiple investigations and public scrutiny. In response, Air India has staunchly defended the Dreamliner model as one of the safest aircraft in global operation.
Air India Stands by the Dreamliner
During a recent session of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which was originally convened to discuss airport levy charges, the agenda swiftly shifted to the AI 171 disaster. Air India, represented by CEO Wilson Campbell, emphasized the Boeing 787 Dreamliner’s safety record, noting that over 1,000 units of the aircraft are actively flying worldwide. The airline reassured lawmakers that the incident was an aberration and not indicative of a systemic failure with the aircraft.
Parliamentary Panel Demands Accountability
The PAC meeting saw high tension as Members of Parliament pressed for urgent reforms in safety protocols and regulatory oversight. Lawmakers questioned the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on recent safety lapses, demanded a comprehensive safety audit by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and criticized the post-crash spike in flight fares as evidence of broader regulatory shortcomings. The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), Airports Authority of India (AAI), Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA), and top officials from various airlines including IndiGo and Akasa Air, were also present.
Crash Probe in Full Swing
Meanwhile, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has intensified its probe into the crash. On June 13, the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) was recovered, followed by the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) on June 16, discovered on a rooftop near the crash site. Both black boxes were transported to Delhi on June 24 via an Indian Air Force aircraft. They arrived at the AAIB lab under the supervision of its Director General, enabling investigators to begin a detailed analysis.
Crucially, the AAIB is coordinating with the U.S.-based National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), given Boeing’s American origin, to ensure transparency and international scrutiny in the investigation process. Lawmakers have also requested clarity on the composition of the crash probe committee, pressing for the inclusion of foreign aviation experts.
Awaiting Answers and Reforms
As the investigation unfolds, Air India has reiterated its deep concern and commitment to full cooperation. While the Dreamliner remains operational across the world, the tragic Ahmedabad crash has exposed gaps in India’s aviation regulatory framework. The findings of the official probe, once released, will be critical not only in determining the cause of this devastating accident but also in shaping future aviation safety protocols. Until then, both the public and policymakers await answers—and action.
(With agency inputs)
