The Air India crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner has been attributed to the actions of the aircraft's crew following forensic investigation findings.
The deadly crash in Ahmedabad claimed the lives of 241 passengers and 19 individuals on the ground, with evidence pointing to manual intervention in the fuel system, Daily Mail reported.
The tragic incident took place on June 12, when the plane plummeted into the Meghani Nagar residential area shortly after departing Ahmedabad airport. The crash is being examined as one of the most severe in India's aviation history. Recently released forensic details from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have shed light on the potential causes behind this disaster.
Investigations reveal that the aircraft lost power suddenly when the fuel cutoff switches activated simultaneously. This action deprived the engines of fuel and led to the catastrophic crash. In aircraft of this make, these levers are engineered with a system designed to avert unintentional activation.
Cockpit voice recordings from the final moments capture the pilots discussing having their fuel supply disengaged. Forensic experts highlighted that to activate the lever, they must first be manually unlocked by being lifted upward, a mechanism safeguarded by guard brackets. This points to a deliberate action rather than an equipment failure.
Captain Mohan Ranganthan, an experienced aviation expert, explained the nature of these controls. He emphasized their robustness, underscoring the improbability of mechanical failure leading to inadvertent activation. "It has to be done manually, it cannot be done automatically or due to a power failure," he affirmed in his assessment.
The cockpit voice recordings documented concern among the pilots as they noticed the abrupt cessation of fuel flow to the engines. These recordings have been critical in aiding investigators in piecing together the sequence of events that preceded the tragedy.
Ranganthan further clarified the design of the fuel selectors, stating, "The fuel selectors they aren't the sliding type, they are always in a slot." These details dismiss possibilities of accidental activation, reinforcing the likelihood of intentional manipulation.
Captain Mohan Ranganthan stated, "The fuel selectors they aren't the sliding type, they are always in a slot." It has to be done manually, it cannot be done automatically or due to a power failure.
The crash left deep devastation, especially in the Meghani Nagar community, which lost 19 residents. The severe destruction also hindered recovery and identification efforts.
The AAIB's investigative findings have invigorated discussions on aviation safety and protocols regarding aircraft systems operations. As more details emerge, there is an expectation of rigorous evaluation of standard operating procedures for flight crews.
The deadly incident underscores the importance of continual safety reassessments within the airline industry, ensuring no oversight leads to tragedy. This case has already sparked dialogue on possible regulatory changes.
Given these findings, aviation authorities worldwide may review training protocols and operational guidelines for Boeing 787 Dreamliners and similar aircraft to help prevent future incidents.
Moreover, the relatively new Dreamliner involved in the crash has raised concerns about oversight and crew readiness. As a result, the incident highlights the need for stronger training to reduce risks tied to manual error.
In conclusion, the Air India crash in Ahmedabad raised significant questions regarding aircraft operations and human intervention. The deaths of 241 passengers and 19 individuals on the ground marked one of India's worst aviation disasters. Furthermore, evidence points to intentional actions affecting the fuel system, leading to engine power loss. Notably, pilot recordings have offered insights into their last moments. Ultimately, the full ramifications are likely to influence future aviation regulations and safety protocols.
