New Delhi: Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has urged the public and media to refrain from drawing conclusions regarding the tragic Air India crash until the final investigation report is released. Speaking on Saturday, the minister emphasized that the findings published so far by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) are based only on preliminary data.
The Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, crashed on June 12, shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, en route to London Gatwick. The aircraft plunged into a nearby medical hostel complex, resulting in the death of 141 people on board and several on the ground.
“We should not jump to any conclusion until the final report is made public,” said Naidu, noting that aviation safety investigations are a thorough and methodical process. “The preliminary report by AAIB helps establish the initial facts, but only the final report will provide a complete picture.”
The minister also took the opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and professionalism of India’s aviation workforce. “I truly believe we have the most outstanding pilots and crew in the world. They are the backbone of the civil aviation industry,” he said.
The AAIB’s preliminary findings, released last week, detailed a sequence of events leading to the crash, including the unexpected shutdown of both engines shortly after takeoff. Investigators are currently examining possible causes, including mechanical issues, cockpit miscommunication, or unintended human error.
Naidu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to aviation safety, transparency, and accountability. He assured that the ministry is closely monitoring the investigation and that corrective measures, if necessary, will be implemented based on the final AAIB recommendations.
The full investigation report is expected to provide definitive answers and guide future aviation safety protocols.
