SC Calls Report “Unfortunate” Over Air India Fuel Cut-off Claim
The Supreme Court has termed the suggestion of a pilot-initiated “fuel cut-off” in the preliminary report on the Air India Flight 171 crash as “unfortunate.” The observation came while hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by NGO Safety Matters Foundation. The court noted that blaming pilots based on cockpit audio without complete evidence was premature.
Details of Preliminary Report
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) report cited recorded conversation between Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kundar after the June 12, 2025, takeoff. One pilot is reported to have asked, “Why did you cut off?” with the other responding, “I didn’t.” Investigators said the fuel control switches briefly shifted to “cut-off,” leading to loss of engine thrust.
Court Seeks Independent Probe
A bench led by Chief Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh issued notices to the Centre, DGCA, and AAIB. The court asked for clarity on whether an independent inquiry is needed, stressing that systemic and technical factors must not be overlooked while examining human actions.
