The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is engaged in the systematic collection, preservation and examination of all evidence as part of its probe into the sudden loss of altitude of an Air India Phuket-Delhi flight that injured 24 people last month.
What Happened
The incident has been classified as a serious one. The AAIB is investigating the circumstances surrounding the occurrence, while the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is responsible for regulatory action based on the outcome of the investigation and the prescribed testing process. With the AAIB commencing its probe into the August 4 incident, teams from the French air accident investigation agency, Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA), as well as the aircraft’s manufacturer Airbus will assist in the investigation, as per the standard operating procedures.
The ministry’s release said the main focus of the investigation is to determine the circumstances and contributing factors relating to the incident and to identify appropriate safety measures to prevent recurrence. “The investigation is independent, evidence-based and comprehensive, and no inference regarding the cause of the occurrence should be drawn from any isolated piece of information while the investigation is in progress,” it said.
Earlier, people familiar with the matter cited a preliminary defect report (PDR) prepared by the pilots to suggest that the incident was preceded by multiple technical glitches, including an autopilot disconnection.
Investigation and Response
“The AAIB will conduct a thorough investigation covering all material facts and relevant evidence and will issue its preliminary findings within the stipulated timeframe in accordance with the applicable provisions and ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) protocols. Further information will be placed in the public domain at the appropriate stage of the investigation,” it added.
It also said that certain records, statements, medical information and other material collected during the investigation are protected and confidential in accordance with the applicable investigation framework. “Maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of the investigation process is essential to a fair, objective and technically sound determination of the facts,” it said. The AAIB remains committed to an independent, transparent and professional investigation, with aviation safety as its overriding objective, it said.
