Pilot Union Challenges Air India Crash Report

Pilot Union Accuses Authorities of Bias in Air India Crash Investigation

The Airline Pilots Association of India (APAI) has firmly rejected the "excessive focus" on pilot error suggested in the preliminary report on the Air India crash and also questioned the transparency of the investigation. The organization believes the tone of the report and the manner in which it was leaked to the media raise serious concerns about the fairness of the process.

Fuel Supply Error at the Center of Report

According to the preliminary report issued by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), the direct cause of the accident was that the engines of the aircraft did not receive fuel. The document indicated that shortly after takeoff, the fuel valves were in a closed position, causing a fuel shortage and engine shutdown. Allegedly, the cockpit voice recorder captured one pilot asking another, "Why did you shut off the fuel?" to which the other replied, "It wasn't me."

Pilots Stand for Fair Investigation

The pilot union rejected the conclusions of the report and stated that "the direction and tone of the investigation clearly point to pilot error, which we firmly refute." The organization emphasized that all accident investigations should be impartial, fact-based, and transparent, especially when lives have been endangered or lost.

The APAI also claims that the investigation did not involve professionals with adequate experience, particularly active pilots who could make meaningful contributions to reconstructing the events. According to the statement, "the investigations are carried out in secrecy, which undermines public trust and credibility."

Air India's Response

In response to the events, Air India stated that it had received the preliminary report and is continuing to fully cooperate with the AAIB and other authorities in the investigation process. The airline stressed its commitment to passenger safety and supports any procedures that help accurately uncover the circumstances of the accident.

Transparency and Trust Issues

This recent incident highlights the crucial role of transparent and objective accident investigations in maintaining aviation safety. The objective of an investigation is not to find a scapegoat but to derive lessons and prevent similar incidents. If pilots feel that investigations are based on pre-determined conclusions, it can weaken the confidence of aviation professionals and the public over time.

Summary

APAI's advocacy for pilots and the demand for a fair investigation is not only important for the specific incident but also for preventing future accidents and ensuring the credibility of aviation safety. Authorities and airlines must now ensure that all parties are heard and that the whole truth comes to light—without bias.

(Based on the report by Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).)