Air India Crash: Families Demand Answers as Preliminary Report Fuels Mystery
Air India Crash: Families Demand Answers as Preliminary Report Fuels Mystery
Families of the victims of the recent Air India plane crash are expressing deep dissatisfaction with the preliminary report, describing its findings as ‘vague’ and hoping for greater clarity from investigators. The report, published last Friday, revealed that both of the aircraft’s fuel switches were found in the cut-off position immediately after takeoff, a perplexing detail that has intensified the mystery surrounding the tragedy.
The preliminary findings from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau noted that the cockpit voice recording captured one pilot questioning the other about the fuel cut-off, to which the second pilot denied the action. The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a medical college shortly after departing from Ahmedabad airport on June 12, claiming the lives of 241 people on board. An additional 19 individuals on the ground perished, and 67 sustained serious injuries.
Ishan Baxi, cousin of Dhir and Heer Baxi who were returning to London after visiting their grandmother, voiced the families’ collective sentiment. “We’re still hoping for a more transparent and honest investigation that doesn’t shy away from addressing possible mechanical flaws or lapses in protocol to avoid future potential accidents,” he stated, emphasizing the need for full accountability and preventative changes.
Relatives of Akeel Nanabawa, his wife Hannaa Vorajee, and their four-year-old daughter Sara Nanabawa, who also died in the crash, issued a statement calling the report a “first stepping stone.” They underscored their need for “honesty, transparency and an unwavering commitment to uncovering the full truth” to find closure and begin healing. Fifty-two British nationals were among the deceased.
The report confirmed that all crew members were breathalysed and found fit to operate the flight, and fuel samples were satisfactory. Investigators have identified “components of interest for further examinations.” UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander expressed confidence in the ongoing investigation, with assistance also being provided by the US National Transportation Safety Board. Air India has affirmed its full cooperation with authorities.
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