The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has said that it remains committed to conducting a thorough, independent, objective and evidence-based investigation into the accident involving Air India Flight AI-171 which was operating from Ahmedabad to London. Today marks one year since the tragic accident which occurred shortly after take-off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad last year. The AAIB has issued interim statement on the progress of investigation saying that the Final Report will be released upon completion of all investigative activities and the requisite international review. AAIB said, the sole purpose of an accident investigation is to enhance aviation safety through the identification of lessons and safety recommendations, and not to apportion blame or liability. AAIB has urged all stakeholders, including the media and the public to refrain from speculation or premature conclusions while the investigation remains in progress.
According to Ministry of Civil Aviation, the AAIB is conducting the investigation in accordance with the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules and the standards and recommended practices. A preliminary report containing factual information was released in July last year. It added that over the past year, the investigation team has undertaken an extensive and rigorous examination of all relevant technical, operational, organisational and human factors associated with the accident. The Ministry said that significant progress has been made in the examination and analysis of aircraft systems, flight recorder data and other evidence relevant to the investigation. The AAIB has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, transparency and investigative rigour. It said, every aspect of the accident will be examined with the utmost care and diligence.
