Air India Flight Crash Pilot: NTSB Urges Caution Amid Speculation Over Cause
The investigation into the Air India Flight 171 crash is ongoing, with the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) urging the public and media to hold off on premature speculation.
The warning comes as intense debate surrounds the crash’s cause, particularly focusing on pilot actions.
NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy took to social media platform X to voice support for India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which is leading the inquiry.
“We fully support the AAIB’s public appeal, which was released Thursday, and will continue to support its ongoing investigation,” she said.
The AAIB recently published its preliminary findings, revealing that shortly after takeoff, pilots found the fuel control switches off, cutting fuel supply to both engines on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
While the report confirmed this error, it did not suggest any faults with the aircraft or engines.
Despite this, speculation has been rife across aviation forums and media outlets. Rumours about pilot error and training shortcomings have been rife. However, the AAIB has urged everyone to rely on verified facts and avoid rushing to conclusions.
Homendy added: “Investigations of this magnitude take time,” reminding everyone that “all investigative questions should be addressed to the AAIB.”
Set up in 2012, the AAIB has a solid track record, having investigated over 90 accidents and more than 100 serious incidents. It prides itself on a “flawless” record and stresses the importance of a careful, impartial approach.
The probe into Flight 171 (registration VT-ANB) is one of several ongoing inquiries at the bureau. For now, both the AAIB and NTSB ask for patience and trust in the investigative process.