Indian Pilots Rally Behind Air India Crash Crew Amid Speculation

The Indian pilots' association asserts that the Air India Flight 171 crew acted according to protocols during their last flight. Amidst rising speculation of foul play and unfounded allegations of pilot suicide, the association calls for respect and a thorough investigation before conclusions are made.

The Indian Commercial Pilots' Association (ICPA) has voiced strong support for the crew of Air India Flight 171, which tragically crashed in June, claiming the lives of 260 individuals. The response comes following a preliminary report indicating that the pilots acted in accordance with their training under adverse conditions. The association criticized media narratives suggesting pilot suicide, labeling such claims as irresponsible and unethical.

The preliminary investigation did not place blame on the pilots; rather, it pointed out that shortly after take-off, the fuel-control switches of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner moved to the 'cut-off' position, cutting off fuel to the engines. The cockpit voice recordings indicated confusion among the pilots about what had happened, with one pilot questioning the other about the switch's position, but failing to provide clarity on who manipulated the controls.

The ICPA stated, "To speculate on pilot suicide without substantiated evidence is not only a violation of ethical reporting but is also disrespectful to the affected families and the flying profession." They have condemned the reckless speculation proliferating in media since the preliminary findings, calling for restraint until a final report is made available.

Investigations are ongoing, led by Indian authorities with input from experts including representatives from Boeing and US and UK regulators. A final investigative report is expected within the next year. Meanwhile, the Airline Pilots' Association of India (ALPA India) expressed concerns regarding the transparency of the current investigations, especially regarding the fuel-control switches that were previously flagged in US advisories.

Indian Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu urged everyone to avoid premature conclusions, emphasizing the strong credentials of Indian pilots and crew. The country’s aviation community remains on edge, as the families of the victims wait for clarity and justice regarding the devastating incident that took place shortly after departing Ahmedabad for London on June 12.