Air India crash: Possibility of sabotage in AI 171 disaster that killed 274, says MoS Aviation
India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is considering every potential factor, including the possibility of sabotage, following the tragic Air India AI 171 accident in Ahmedabad last month that resulted in 274 fatalities. Minister of State (MoS) for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol disclosed this information on Saturday, June 29. In an interview with NDTV, the minister emphasized that the recovered black boxes from the aircraft will remain in India for analysis. He stated that the AAIB is thoroughly investigating the tragic incident and examining every potential lead. Characterizing the event as "unprecedented," he assured that the inquiry team is diligently exploring every avenue.
Is sabotage a possibility?
At this moment, the exact reason behind the aircraft's crash shortly after takeoff remains uncertain. Mohol referred to the crash as an "unfortunate incident," adding, "The AAIB has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the matter... All possibilities, including sabotage, are being explored. The CCTV footage is under review, and every angle is being analyzed... multiple agencies are involved in the investigation."
What led to the AI 171 crash?
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which was headed for London and carried 242 individuals, went down just moments after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on June 12. Out of the 242 aboard, 241 lost their lives, leaving just one survivor. Additionally, 33 others died as the aircraft crashed into the residential area of BJ Medical College.
Reports indicate that the plane began to lose altitude almost immediately after takeoff and collided with BJ Medical College’s residential buildings, leading to a significant fire. Nine students and their family members on the ground also perished. Prior to the impact, the pilot issued a 'Mayday' call due to total engine failure. Mohol acknowledged this situation, pointing out that simultaneous failure of both engines is "extremely rare." He remarked, "Once the (investigation) report is completed, we will determine whether it was due to an engine malfunction or a fuel supply issue, or why both engines ceased to function. The black box contains a cockpit voice recorder (CVR) that has preserved the dialogue between the two pilots. It's premature to draw conclusions, but the findings will be revealed. The report is expected in three months."
Black Box to remain in India
In response to rumors about the flight's black box being sent overseas, Mohol stated, “It will not be going anywhere. It is currently with the AAIB, and there is no necessity to send it outside the country. We will conduct the complete investigation ourselves.”
