Preliminary Findings on Ahmedabad Plane Crash Reveal No Mechanical Failures
Investigation Report Overview
A preliminary report released on Saturday by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau regarding the plane crash in Ahmedabad has indicated that there were no mechanical or maintenance issues with the Boeing aircraft or its engines, as reported by the Chief Executive Officer of Air India, Campbell Wilson.
In a message to Air India staff, Wilson confirmed that all Boeing 787 aircraft in the airline's fleet underwent inspections shortly after the June 12 incident and were deemed fit for operation.
He stated, 'We are continuing to conduct all necessary checks, including any new ones that may be recommended by authorities.'
The tragic crash on June 12 resulted in the loss of at least 275 lives and has been described as the worst aviation disaster globally in the past decade.
According to the preliminary report, shortly after takeoff, the aircraft's fuel control switches shifted from 'RUN' to 'CUTOFF' almost simultaneously, leading to the shutdown of both engines.
The cockpit voice recorder captured one pilot questioning the other about the fuel shutdown, to which the second pilot replied that he had not done so.
After approximately 10 seconds, the switches were returned to the 'RUN' position, indicating an attempt by the pilots to restore engine thrust. While one engine managed to recover, the other could not halt its deceleration.
The flight lasted around 30 seconds from takeoff until the crash, as detailed in the report.
Wilson noted that the findings provided clarity but also raised further questions.
He urged employees to refrain from engaging in the 'ongoing cycle of theories, allegations, rumors, and sensational headlines.'
He emphasized the importance of avoiding 'premature conclusions' as the investigation is still ongoing.
Wilson assured that the airline would fully cooperate with the investigation to ensure a thorough and comprehensive inquiry.
He also mentioned that there were no issues with fuel quality and that the takeoff roll was normal, with pilots having passed their mandatory pre-flight breathalyzer tests and no medical concerns reported.
Air India's primary focus remains on supporting the bereaved and injured, fostering teamwork, and ensuring a safe and reliable travel experience for customers worldwide.
On June 12, the Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which was headed to London’s Gatwick airport from Ahmedabad, crashed just 33 seconds after takeoff.
There were 242 individuals on board, with one passenger surviving with impact injuries.
Additionally, 34 fatalities occurred on the ground when the plane struck a hostel building associated with BJ Medical College and Hospital in Ahmedabad.
DGCA Mandates Fuel Switch Inspections
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has instructed all domestic airlines operating Boeing aircraft to inspect the fuel control switch mechanisms in their fleets by July 21, as reported by a media channel.
The directive emphasized the necessity of adhering to this timeline to maintain airworthiness and operational safety.
The DGCA's order referenced a 2018 advisory from the United States Federal Aviation Administration, which warned of potential fuel switch malfunctions in certain Boeing aircraft.
On the same day, Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, instructed its pilots to exercise caution when operating the fuel control switches on their Boeing 787 aircraft and mandated an inspection of the locking mechanism, as reported by a media outlet.
The directive advised pilots to ensure that no objects were placed on the pedestal that could inadvertently cause movement.