Air India Crash: Sabotage Angle Being Probed Too; No Question of Sending Black Boxes to US – MoS Murlidhar Mohol
Ahmedabad, India – The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is investigating all possible angles, including sabotage, in the tragic Air India plane crash that occurred in Ahmedabad on June 12, killing 274 people onboard and on the ground. Minister of State (MoS) for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol confirmed that the black boxes of the ill-fated Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner are being analyzed in Delhi’s state-of-the-art lab, dismissing reports that they would be sent abroad for examination.
Key Details of the Crash
The London-bound AI 171 flight crashed seconds after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, plunging into the residential quarters of BJ Medical College doctors in Meghaninagar. Of the 242 passengers and crew, only one survived. The pilot, Captain Sumit Sabharwal, issued a ‘Mayday’ distress call moments before the crash, indicating a full emergency.
Black Box Analysis Crucial for Investigation
The black boxes, comprising the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), are critical in determining the cause of the crash. In an interview to NDTV, Mohol stated:
“The AAIB is probing all angles, including sabotage. CCTV footage is being reviewed, and multiple agencies are involved. The black box is in AAIB’s custody, and there’s no need to send it outside India.”
Possible Causes Under Scrutiny
Experts speculate that a dual engine failure may have caused the crash. Mohol acknowledged:
“It’s rare for both engines to shut down simultaneously. The investigation will determine if it was an engine issue, fuel supply problem, or another factor.”
Watch the interview here:
#LIVE | Watch Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol's (@mohol_murlidhar) first interview after Air India plane crash
— NDTV (@ndtv) June 29, 2025
https://t.co/rFch9XYesQ
Safety Reassurances Amid Passenger Concerns
Following the crash, all 33 Dreamliners in Air India’s fleet were inspected by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and deemed safe. Mohol reassured:
“This was a rare accident. Passengers need not fear; air travel remains safe.”
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Additional Updates from the Minister
- DGCA’s Technical Vacancies: 419 technical positions remain unfilled, but recruitment will soon begin.
- Pilot Exploitation: Private airlines cannot force pilots into excessive work hours; grievances can be reported to the Civil Aviation Ministry.
- Affordable Airport Food: Udaan Yatri Cafes at select airports offer budget-friendly meals, with plans for expansion.
Conclusion
The AAIB’s final report, expected in three months, will provide conclusive answers. Until then, authorities continue to explore every possibility, including sabotage, to ensure such a tragedy never recurs.
