Air India Plane Crash: Lead Investigator Still to Be Appointed
Nearly two weeks after the devastating Air India crash in Ahmedabad that resulted in the loss of 274 lives, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has yet to appoint a lead investigator for the inquiry. This delay raises significant concerns regarding the efficiency and credibility of the investigation process. According to international aviation regulations, a lead investigator should be designated promptly, with a preliminary report expected within 30 days of the incident. However, internal discussions have not yet led to a formal government order to initiate the investigation.
Investigation Delays and Appointments
Sources indicate that Dhruv Rebbapragada, a former safety director at Airbus and an experienced investigator, has been chosen to lead the inquiry. Despite this selection, the lack of a formal notification from the AAIB’s director general means Rebbapragada currently lacks the necessary legal authority, budgetary control, and access to crucial evidence, such as flight data and cockpit voice recorders. Aviation safety expert Amit Singh emphasized the importance of an official order, stating that without it, investigators cannot effectively compel cooperation or access the crash site.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu confirmed that the AAIB is overseeing the investigation and that a panel has been established. However, he did not provide a timeline for when the lead investigator would be officially appointed. Naidu stated, “The investigation has started from Day 1. I do not want to put any pressure… Let them go through the whole process.” The crash, which occurred on June 12, involved an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner that tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, resulting in 270 fatalities, including 241 passengers.
Concerns Over Investigation Process
While the Ministry of Civil Aviation claims that a formal inquiry began on June 12, skepticism remains among aviation experts. In contrast to the swift action taken after the 2020 Calicut Air India Express crash, where a five-member panel was appointed within days, the current situation has raised doubts about the AAIB’s capability and independence. Critics point out that the AAIB primarily draws its staff from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which may compromise its objectivity.
The AAIB has historically been overseen by Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers, with the current chief, GVG Yugandhar, being a former Indian Air Force officer. In March, a Parliamentary Standing Committee highlighted the AAIB’s inadequate resources, noting that only Rs 20 crore was allocated for capital expenditure in FY26. This lack of funding and independence has led to questions about the bureau’s ability to conduct thorough investigations.
Broader Safety Recommendations
In addition to the AAIB’s investigation, a separate committee has been formed under Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan to provide broader safety recommendations. However, Minister Naidu reiterated that the AAIB remains the primary authority responsible for investigating the Ahmedabad crash. This dual approach aims to enhance aviation safety but raises concerns about the effectiveness of the AAIB’s inquiry amidst its current limitations.
As the investigation continues, the families of the victims and the aviation community await clarity on the process and the appointment of a lead investigator. The urgency of the situation underscores the need for a swift and transparent investigation to ensure accountability and improve safety standards in the aviation sector.
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