Air India passionately defended the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner involved in the Ahmedabad crash on June 12 before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament, lauding it as one of the safest airplanes globally. The airline highlighted to the PAC that over 1,000 Dreamliners are operational worldwide, delivering exceptional service. This defense unfurled during a tense PAC meeting originally scheduled to discuss 'airport charges,' which transformed due to the gravity of the recent crash.
The ill-fated Flight AI-171, bound for London from Ahmedabad, tragically crashed into the hostel of BJ Medical College in Meghaninagar seconds after takeoff, claiming 260 lives, including 241 passengers and crew members. The victims also included 19 students from the medical college. Sources reported Air India emphasizing their deep concern and anticipation for the official investigation report in their dialogue with the PAC.
Read More: Families Consider Legal Action Against Air India and Boeing Over Ahmedabad Crash
Air India CEO Addresses PAC
During the PAC meeting, Air India's CEO, Wilson Campbell, engaged actively. He was accompanied by high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Airport Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA), Airport Authority of India (AAI), and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). Senior representatives from other airlines, including Indigo and Akasa Air, also participated in these crucial discussions.
Demand for Safety Procedure Audit
Sources reveal that the PAC members demanded explanations from airline officials regarding safety procedures and insisted on an immediate audit by BCAS. Concerns arose over DGCA's operational efficacy, with recent safety lapses highlighted. Furthermore, increases in airfare following the Pahalgam terror incident were questioned as regulatory failures. The criteria for selecting the crash investigation committee members was scrutinized, alongside queries about the involvement of foreign aviation experts in the probe.
Response to Compensation Claims Filed by Victims’ Families
As the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) advances with its inquiry into the Ahmedabad crash, they have submitted a preliminary report to the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Collaborating with the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the investigation accelerated upon retrieving the two black boxes from the wreckage. On June 13, the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) was recovered, followed by the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) on June 16. By June 24, these crucial pieces were transported to Delhi by the Indian Air Force for further analysis.
