Don’t Rush: Aviation Minister on Ahmedabad Crash Report
Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu has urged caution following the release of the preliminary findings by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) into the Air India Flight AI‑171 crash in Ahmedabad on June 12. Addressing the media in Visakhapatnam, he emphasised that no definite conclusions can be drawn until the final AAIB report is submitted.
Preliminary Report Shows Engine Fuel Shutdown
The AAIB’s initial report highlighted that both engine fuel control switches were switched from “RUN” to “CUTOFF” within seconds of takeoff, leading to the loss of thrust. The cockpit voice recorder captured one pilot asking, “Why did you cut off the fuel?” and the other replying, “I didn’t.” However, the report did not establish whether the action was intentional or accidental.
Minister Lauds AAIB and Domestic Black Box Analysis
Naidu praised the AAIB’s professional and transparent investigation, particularly noting that this is the first time black box data recovery and analysis have been fully carried out in India, at the AAIB laboratory in Delhi. He assured full support from the civil aviation ministry and confirmed that international investigation protocols were followed accurately.
Pilots Backed, Families Supported
Reaffirming faith in India’s aviation professionals, the minister called pilots and crew “the backbone of civil aviation,” praised their performance, and pledged to assist families of the 260 victims. Of these, 229 were passengers, 12 were crew members, and 19 were on the ground. He noted the ministry would extend all available support during this difficult time.
Final Report Awaited Before Conclusion
Naidu stressed twice that the preliminary findings are only initial observations. He emphasised the need to await the final report, stating it would offer a complete assessment of technical and human factors behind the crash. The ministry will refrain from commenting further until all evidence is analysed.
