India
-Prakash KL
A pilots’ association wants a judicial inquiry into a plane crash. The Air India Flight 171 tragedy happened last year. It occurred on June 12, 2025. The flight left Ahmedabad for London’s Gatwick Airport. Sadly, all 241 people on board died.
The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) made this demand. President Captain CS Randhawa spoke at a press conference. He claimed gaps exist in the current investigation. He rejected claims that pilots caused the tragedy.
The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has requested a judicial probe into the Air India Flight 171 crash on June 12, 2025, citing alleged gaps and potential conflicts of interest in the ongoing official investigation into the accident that killed 241 people.
Concerns over investigation process
Captain Randhawa discussed the plane’s two black boxes. He noted different damage levels on both devices. He wants independent experts to examine these parts. He believes the current probe needs a more thorough review.
The FIP also questioned the investigation board’s makeup. Some members come from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Randhawa warned this creates a conflict of interest. He urged the inclusion of independent subject-matter experts.
The group strongly criticised foreign media reports. Some suggested a pilot suicide theory based on recordings. Randhawa called these theories both inappropriate and wrong. He noted the findings rely on very short data.
Technical questions remain
The association believes an electrical failure likely caused the crash. The plane had a stabiliser issue when arriving from Delhi. It also had prior electrical and air-conditioning problems. The group noted similar glitches on Boeing 787 jets.
The FIP also questioned why evidence is missing. They said ACARS messages were not in the report. Nearly one year has passed since the crash. Yet, officials have not shared a final report draft.
The pilots’ body demanded a complete final report soon. They argued against releasing only an interim document. It could cause confusion and fuel more speculation. They insist that a judicial probe is now necessary.
