Investigation Underway for India's Worst Air Disaster: Key Insights
Investigation of the Air Disaster
Guwahati, June 14: The inquiry into the black box will uncover the true reasons behind the tragic air disaster that occurred on June 12. It remains puzzling how the crash happened just minutes after takeoff, given that all aircraft undergo thorough inspections at the airport prior to departure.
Sources from the aviation industry indicated that a standard maintenance protocol is adhered to before any flight. When an aircraft lands and is set to depart again, it is meticulously examined by engineers accredited by the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is widely regarded as a reliable and fuel-efficient aircraft. However, it has previously encountered issues, such as battery overheating, leading to temporary groundings in various countries. Despite improvements in quality control, battery overheating can still occur in extremely hot conditions.
According to sources, one possible factor in Thursday's incident could be battery overheating due to the high temperatures in Ahmedabad. “However, we should refrain from making assumptions until the investigation concludes,” they cautioned.
Additionally, multiple tasks like refueling, cabin cleaning, and maintenance checks are conducted simultaneously, allowing an aircraft to be prepared for flight within 20 to 30 minutes. This is why no aircraft departs immediately after arriving.
Another critical aspect is ensuring the even distribution of weight, including passengers and cargo. “Proper load distribution is essential for the aircraft's stability. This is why passengers are often seated in various locations, even on a partially filled flight,” sources explained.
Before takeoff, the aircraft maintenance engineer's report and load distribution sheets are presented to the pilot. The flight will only proceed if the captain is fully satisfied with the information. If there are any concerns, the pilot will not authorize the flight.
Sources also recalled a past incident involving a Pakistani aircraft that crashed due to ground staff overloading the plane without notifying the pilot.
In response to a viral video featuring a passenger from the Delhi to Ahmedabad flight claiming the air conditioning was malfunctioning, sources clarified that a plane cannot operate without functioning air conditioning. “While it is true that issues can arise when engines are off on the ground, making use of preconditioned air, it is impossible for pilots to keep the aircraft airborne for extended periods without air conditioning,” they stated.
Furthermore, it has been noted that pilot error has been the cause of many accidents in India, but the specific cause of this incident remains unknown.