No Blame Assigned in AI-171 Crash Probe: Govt

In a crucial update on the Air India Express Flight AI-171 crash, government officials confirmed that no party is being blamed while investigations remain ongoing. The Boeing 737-800, flying from Dubai to Kozhikode on August 7, 2024, overshot the runway during heavy rain, killing 21 passengers and injuring over 100. Though early reports cited weather and pilot actions, authorities stress it’s too soon for conclusions.

Investigation Examines Multiple Causes

A Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) official stated the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is assessing all factors, including:

• Weather Conditions: Torrential rain reduced visibility and made the runway slippery.
• Runway Safety: Scrutiny of Kozhikode’s tabletop runway, known for its risky terrain.
• Pilot Decisions: Reports suggest a go-around maneuver was attempted before the crash.
• Aircraft Maintenance: Checks underway for potential technical failures.

“We’re not assigning blame yet. The probe is thorough, and we’ll await evidence,” the official said.

Families Demand Accountability

Victims’ families expressed frustration over the delayed accountability. Ramesh Nair, who lost his brother, said, “This seems preventable. Authorities must act.”

However, aviation experts urge patience. Captain Mohan Ranganathan, a safety analyst, noted: “Rushing conclusions risks wrongful blame. Black box data and weather reports need careful analysis.”

Aviation Safety Reforms Under Scrutiny

The crash revived debates on India’s aviation safety, especially at tabletop runways like Kozhikode’s. Pilots describe landing there in bad weather as “extremely challenging.”

Post-crash, the DGCA issued new rules:
✔ Stricter wind shear detection
✔ Mandatory pilot training for tabletop runways

Critics argue broader reforms are needed to prevent future tragedies.

Govt Vows Transparency

Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia promised a transparent probe, adding: “Our goal is to find the root cause and improve safety.”

The AAIB’s final report, due in months, will guide policy changes. Until then, the aviation community and grieving families await answers.

NextMinuteNews will update this story as developments emerge.