Air India Crash Probe Gains Momentum as Black Boxes Yield Crucial Data

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Indian investigators have confirmed that the black boxes recovered from the June 12 Air India crash in Ahmedabad are intact and have provided valuable data, countering earlier media reports that suggested damage.

Recovery and Analysis

The cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR) were retrieved on June 13 and 16, respectively—one from a rooftop and the other from debris at the crash site.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) transported both devices securely to Delhi, where data extraction was completed with assistance from the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Officials told lawmakers that the black boxes yielded “good data,” enabling investigators to reconstruct the final moments of the flight.

Focus of Investigation

The probe is narrowing in on the aircraft’s fuel control switches and engine thrust systems, which may have contributed to the deadly crash.
The AAIB is preparing to release a preliminary report by July 12, offering interim findings and outlining next steps.

Parliamentary Oversight

Lawmakers expressed concern over delays in communication and urged greater transparency from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
Air India’s CEO Campbell Wilson appeared before the panel, providing updates on postcrash protocols and safety audits.

Broader Implications

The EU Aviation Safety Agency is investigating Air India Express over alleged noncompliance with engine part directives.
India’s aviation watchdog has also flagged overdue safety checks on multiple Airbus aircraft operated by Air India.

Sources: The Hindu Business Line, MSN, News18, Economic Times, Reuters, Yahoo News, The Hindu