The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has formally requested a personal hearing with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) concerning the investigation into the Air India Flight AI-171 accident that took place in Ahmedabad. This request follows a commitment made during a Supreme Court hearing, where the government assured that the insights of the pilot organisation would be included in the investigation process.

In a letter addressed to the AAIB, FIP President Captain C.S. Randhawa emphasised a particular assurance provided during the Supreme Court proceedings on July 28. The letter states that the inputs from the Federation would be regarded seriously, as confirmed by the Learned Solicitor General of India.

Incident Background and Investigation Timeline

The unfortunate incident involved a Boeing Dreamliner aircraft, registered as VT-ANB, and occurred shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12, 2025. Tragically, 260 individuals lost their lives in the crash, including 229 passengers, 12 crew members, and 19 individuals on the ground.

As the investigation progresses towards completion, the FIP is seeking an opportunity for formal discussions prior to finalising the report. The Federation contends that considering their inputs post-report finalisation would significantly diminish their practical value, as indicated in their correspondence with the AAIB.

The FIP has requested that the AAIB arrange a technical meeting on or before September 15, 2026. This timeline is vital, as the Supreme Court’s Record of Proceedings mentions that the final investigative report is expected to be submitted in the first week of October 2026.

FIP’s Position on Investigation Autonomy

The FIP’s concerns encompass several areas critical to the investigation, including simulator testing, human factors, and the behaviour of aircraft systems. Following a previous court ruling regarding simulator tests, the Solicitor General informed the Supreme Court that the necessary tests had already been conducted, rendering the issue raised in their application moot.

The participation of the FIP is viewed by the Federation as essential to bolstering the investigation’s credibility. Captain Randhawa asserted in the letter that the Federation’s involvement would align the final report with India’s obligations under the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and enhance public confidence in the conclusions drawn.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share