Air India plane crash: MPs demand clarity on black box analysis, seek independent probe of BCAS

The Air India plane headed to London crashed soon after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on June 12.

Several parliamentarians on Tuesday expressed concerns over the ongoing probe into the June 12 Air India plane crash which claimed over 270 lives. Citing lack of transparency in the investigation, the MPs questioned the government on the status of the black box analysis - which will provide a detailed overview of what led to the crash.

The MPs have also called for an independent audit of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) - the regulatory authority responsible for aviation safety protocols, News18 reported quoting sources.

The composition of the probe committee, credentials and other details of the experts involved were among the concerns raised by the parliamentarians. Several questioned were also raised on the methodology used to select the panel. The MPs sought clarity on the professional background and qualifications of those entrusted with the probe.

As per the report, several MPs expressed frustration over the government's lack of response to repeated concerns raised about aviation safety and the ongoing investigation into the AI 171 crash.

One opposition MP reportedly said that even when they escalate issues publicly on social media, there is no acknowledgement or follow-up from the authorities. "If this is how elected representatives are treated, imagine the condition of the common citizen," the MP was quoted as saying.

Echoing similar concerns, a BJP MP raised issues about the condition of aircraft and the rising costs of air travel. Citing a recent personal experience, the member claimed that despite holding a business class ticket with exorbitant pricing, the seat was unserviceable, highlighting a gap in basic servicing standards.

Earlier today, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) submitted its preliminary report on the AI 171 crash to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and other concerned authorities. Equipped with advanced technology, the AAIB operating from its laboratory in Delhi is leading the crash probe.

The Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamline, carrying 242 passengers, crashed just after taking off from Ahmedabad airport on June 12. Of the 242 people on board the aircraft, just one person survived. The aircraft was under the command of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal with First Officer Clive Kundar. Among the victims was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.