ICAO Observer Investigation: India invites ICAO as an observer for the Boeing 787 crash investigation, ensuring transparency and safety with the DGCA’s ongoing audits.
On June 12, a tragic incident occurred when Boeing 787-8 Flight AI 171 crashed near Ahmedabad in India, resulting in the loss of 275 lives.
In response to this devastating event, India has accepted a proposal from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to send an aviation expert as an observer for the investigation.
This decision is significant as it shows India’s commitment to transparency and cooperation while emphasizing its sovereignty over national investigations.
By inviting ICAO to observe without granting them full control, India aims to maintain leadership in the investigation while also respecting international standards and scrutiny, ensuring that the process is thorough and credible.
Air Traffic Disruptions and Return to Normalcy
Following the crash, operations at Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Airport were temporarily suspended.
Flights resumed later that day, albeit under limited conditions. Air India and some other Indian airlines decided to suspend several Boeing 787 flights while inspections were conducted.
From June 12 to 17, Air India had to cancel 83 flights, which is about 18% of its widebody schedule.
So far, inspections on all 33 Boeing Dreamliners in Air India’s fleet are ongoing, with 26 completed.
Although commercial operations have resumed with restrictions, it’s expected that full schedules will be back to normal by the end of July, depending on the results of these inspections and the level of public confidence in air travel.
DGCA’s Findings to Date
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been busy conducting thorough audits across various airlines, maintenance repair organizations (MROs), and major airports like Delhi and Mumbai.
During these audits, they found several safety concerns, including:
- Recurring unfixed defects
- Unsecured life vests
- Poor runway markings
- Worn tires
- Mismatched simulator codes
To address these issues, the DGCA has mandated that corrections be made within seven days and has promised ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance.
Importantly, their investigation into the crash revealed that there were no major issues with the Boeing 787-8 and the engines before the flight, meaning they were considered airworthy.
The analysis of the flight’s black box data was conducted in New Delhi, eliminating the need for overseas analysis.
Official Reactions: DGCA, Air India, Boeing & GE
DGCA
The DGCA confirmed that they will adhere to ICAO standards while maintaining authority over the crash investigation led by the Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
They have also implemented safety audits and made necessary corrections in flights across the sector. A press release stated that all crucial black box recordings will remain with the AAIB in India.
Air India
Air India’s CEO, Campbell Wilson, assured the public that the aircraft involved was well-maintained and had no pre-flight issues.
The airline took the extra step of grounding and inspecting all Dreamliner planes and has established plans for passenger compensation along with promises for enhanced safety measures.
Boeing
Boeing’s CEO canceled their planned appearance at the Paris Airshow, instead sending technical experts to Ahmedabad to assist. Following the crash, Boeing’s stock fell by approximately 7-9%.
GE Aerospace
GE Aerospace confirmed that their GEnx engine team is deployed in India to analyze both cockpit and engine data alongside the investigators.
ICAO Observer Investigation: Technical Insights & Early Clues
Currently, investigations are underway with the support of the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The cockpit voice recorder captured a critical “mayday” call from Captain Sabharwal shortly after takeoff.
Initial findings suggest that there may have been an automatic deployment of the Ram Air Turbine (RAT), which indicates possible electrical or hydraulic failure, potentially affecting both engines.
A Ram Air Turbine (RAT) is an emergency device used in aircraft to provide supplementary power when the main engines or electrical generators fail. It plays a crucial role in maintaining essential flight control and landing capabilities under dire circumstances.
Investigators are closely examining several factors, including engine performance, flap configuration, landing gear, and communication among the crew.
What to Expect Next
A preliminary report from the investigations is expected by mid-July, within 30 days of the crash. Inspections and audits will continue during this time, as authorities work to restore confidence in air travel.
If no major discrepancies are found, normal flight schedules are anticipated to resume by late July.
ICAO Observer Investigation: Conclusion
In summary, India’s decision to invite ICAO as an observer reflects a careful balance between adhering to international oversight and maintaining control over its national investigation processes.
The DGCA’s rigorous audits complement this approach, highlighting a commitment to safety and public trust in the aviation sector.
As investigations are ongoing, there is hope for a safe return to normalcy in air travel, with lessons learned to improve future safety measures.
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