Air India Crash: Preliminary Findings
Air India informed the investigation team that they did not conduct recommended inspections due to the advisory nature of the suggestions, rather than them being mandatory.
Clean Maintenance Record
The VT-ANB aircraft, involved in the incident, had maintained a clean maintenance record since 2023, according to the initial report released last Saturday. The report confirmed that all necessary inspections had been completed, and the aircraft possessed valid airworthiness certificates.
Fuel Control Switch Issue
In 2018, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB), NM-18-33, addressing potential concerns with fuel control switch locking mechanisms on Boeing planes.
The bulletin arose after reports emerged that certain Boeing 737s had these switches installed without their locking features engaged, making them susceptible to inadvertent movements. These locks are designed to prevent switches from being moved accidentally due to factors like vibration or touch.
While the FAA did not mandate a directive, the bulletin recommended inspections as a precautionary measure.
Crash Investigation Details
The preliminary examination into the Air India flight AI171 crash revealed a conversation between the pilots just moments before the accident. One pilot questioned the other about cutting off fuel to the engines, with the latter denying any such action. The investigation aims to determine if the fuel was indeed cut off, and if so, the cause—whether human error, mechanical failure, or system malfunction.
Engine Replacements
The airline had replaced the throttle control module of the aircraft twice, in 2019 and 2023. However, these replacements were not linked to the fuel control switches.
Caution on Preliminary Findings
It is important to note, as emphasized by the civil aviation minister, that the current report is preliminary and subject to change pending further evidence collection.
Investigation Outcome
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, on its way to London from Ahmedabad, faced the deadliest aviation accident in ten years on June 12th. Both engines ceased one after the other shortly after takeoff, with investigators ruling out bird strikes or external damage. The investigation continues to focus on determining the cause of the fuel cutoff.
