Air India Report on Safety & Security in Ahmedabad Plane Crash

In response to questions raised regarding security and fares, Air India submitted a report to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) regarding the Ahmedabad plane crash. The airline stated that the Dreamliner is one of the safest aircraft, with over 1,000 flights operating globally.

According to a report by India Today, Air India defended the Dreamliner during the PAC meeting. The meeting primarily discussed levy charges at airports, though the issue of aviation safety was also raised. On July 8, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) submitted its primary report to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MOCA) regarding the Ahmedabad plane crash. The AAIB is working in collaboration with the United States’ National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

The crash occurred on June 12 when Air India flight AI 171, en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after takeoff, colliding with a medical hostel building. Tragically, 270 people lost their lives, including 241 passengers and crew members. Only one passenger survived the incident. The PAC committee raised concerns during the meeting, asking aviation officials about safety procedures and demanding an immediate audit by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). Questions were also raised regarding the functioning of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

The committee also expressed concerns about recent security lapses. Following the Pahalgam terrorist attack, the committee questioned why airfare hikes were not controlled, which they attributed to the failure of aviation regulators.

The committee inquired about the selection criteria for the team investigating the Ahmedabad crash, particularly regarding the inclusion of foreign aviation experts. They also asked whether their opinions had been sought. In response, Air India stated that they too were concerned about the crash and were awaiting the official report for further clarification.