Air India Plane Crashes in Ahmedabad; 241 Killed
Ahmedabad Plane Crash: An Air India flight, AI-171, en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed, resulting in the death of all 241 passengers on board, including 53 British citizens. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has been assigned to lead the investigation, with anticipated collaboration from US and UK agencies.
AAIB to Head Investigation
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has confirmed that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), India's agency responsible for investigating air accidents and issuing safety reports, will lead the investigation. Within 30 minutes of the accident, the AAIB was assigned responsibility, and its officials were dispatched to Ahmedabad the same day.
Information Sought from Boeing and Air India
The accident involved a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, an aircraft type that has previously faced technical concerns. Boeing's involvement in the investigation is therefore anticipated. Boeing India has stated it will fully cooperate with Air India in the investigation. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has previously conducted two technical reviews of Dreamliner aircraft.
UK and US to Assist
Given the loss of 53 British citizens, the UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB UK) has offered assistance. British Prime Minister Kier Starmer expressed deep sorrow and announced the deployment of a special investigation team. Similarly, the US FAA has offered assistance to India in the investigation. The FAA has previously raised safety concerns regarding Boeing aircraft, and the Indian government may accept this assistance.
Investigation Expected to Take 6-9 Months
According to AAIB officials, a comprehensive investigation and report for an accident of this magnitude could take 6 to 9 months. The report will investigate not only technical failures or pilot error but also review air traffic control, weather conditions, and operational protocols.
