Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol has confirmed that investigations into the tragic crash of Air India flight AI 171, which resulted in 274 fatalities, are exploring the possibility of sabotage. Speaking at the Pune chapter of the Emerging Business Conclave, he emphasized that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is conducting a comprehensive inquiry into every potential cause of the incident.
The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was en route to London when it crashed on June 12 shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft lost altitude and ultimately crashed into the staff housing complex of BJ Medical College, igniting a massive fire. Miraculously, only one person from the 242 passengers and crew survived, while nine on the ground were also killed.
“The AAIB is examining all angles, including possible sabotage,” Mr. Mohol stated during an interview with NDTV. He noted that the investigation involves multiple agencies and includes a detailed analysis of CCTV footage from around the airport. Mohol underscored the importance of a thorough and independent investigation, describing the crash as an extraordinarily rare occurrence.
He also addressed concerns regarding the handling of the aircraft’s black box, confirming that it remains securely with the AAIB and will not be sent abroad for analysis. The black box, which contains both the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR), is essential for piecing together the final moments leading up to the crash.
According to officials, the pilot had issued a Mayday distress signal shortly after takeoff, suggesting a serious emergency situation. Speculation has emerged regarding a potential dual engine failure, a scenario that aviation experts regard as extremely uncommon.
“The investigation will determine whether the crash was caused by an engine issue, a fuel problem, or another factor,” Mr. Mohol explained. He cautioned against premature conclusions, emphasizing that the CVR will provide vital insights. A final report detailing the findings of the investigation is anticipated within three months.
In light of the accident, Mr. Mohol reassured passengers that all 33 Dreamliner aircraft in Air India’s fleet have undergone rigorous inspections following directives from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), with no issues found.
Beyond the crash investigation, Mr. Mohol discussed broader aviation challenges, including over 400 technical vacancies in the DGCA, concerns related to pilot working hours, and initiatives aimed at making air travel more affordable. He highlighted the ministry’s efforts to expand low-cost food options at airports through initiatives like Udaan Yatri Cafes, which will offer essential items such as tea and snacks at reasonable prices.
The devastating crash has sparked renewed calls for enhanced aviation oversight and greater transparency in accident investigations, as authorities strive to uncover the true circumstances surrounding one of India’s deadliest air disasters.
