In the wake of the tragic Air India flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed the lives of 241 people, the Indian government has initiated urgent safety checks on Air India's Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. The announcement was made by Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, who emphasized that aviation safety would not be compromised and that a thorough investigation into the crash was underway.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered extended surveillance and technical inspections of all 34 Boeing 787 aircraft currently operating in the Indian fleet. Minister Naidu confirmed that eight of these aircraft have already undergone inspection with immediate urgency. Air India, in a statement, indicated it has completed one-time safety checks on nine aircraft and is on track to inspect the remaining 24 within the timeline provided by the DGCA. These checks may lead to higher turnaround times and potential delays, especially on long-haul routes.
The inspections encompass a comprehensive review of various aircraft systems. These include assessments of take-off parameters, electronic engine control tests, engine fuel-related checks, fuel parameter monitoring, cabin air compressor systems, hydraulic system serviceability, and flight control inspections during transit. Furthermore, the DGCA has directed Air India to address any recurring technical issues identified in the past 15 days.
Minister Naidu highlighted the recovery of the aircraft's black box by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) as a crucial step in determining the cause of the crash. Decoding the black box, particularly the flight data recorder, is expected to provide valuable insights into the events leading up to the accident. The search continues for the cockpit voice recorder.
In addition to the technical investigation, the government has formed a high-level committee, chaired by the Union Home Secretary, to examine all aspects of the crash and to suggest comprehensive guidelines for preventing future incidents. This committee has been given three months to submit its report. The minister also personally visited the crash site along with Gujarat officials.
The Ahmedabad crash involved a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London's Gatwick Airport. The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff, impacting a medical college hostel building near the airport. Emergency responders were quickly deployed, and DNA testing is underway to identify the victims and return their remains to their families. Air India has been directed to assist the families with travel, documentation, and grief support.
While the investigation is ongoing, preliminary findings suggest the possibility of faults with the aircraft or human error, rather than a universal issue with Boeing 787s or their GEnx engines. Boeing has issued a service bulletin stating that no additional measures are needed for the safe operation of the aircraft. However, authorities have cautioned against drawing premature conclusions.
The recent Air India crash and the subsequent safety checks have prompted increased scrutiny of the airline's operations and safety standards. The government has emphasized its commitment to implementing all necessary measures to enhance aviation safety.
