The probe into the fatal Air India plane crash that occurred on June 12 in Ahmedabad remains ongoing, with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) examining all possible aspects to identify the probable causes and contributory factors behind the AI 171 accident, Parliament was informed on Thursday, the IANS reported on Thursday.
A preliminary report issued by the AAIB, based on the available factual data, has been released, though it contains no conclusions at this stage.
“The sole purpose of investigating any accident or incident is to prevent future occurrences, rather than to assign blame or liability. All investigations are carried out in a fair, impartial, and judicious manner, in accordance with the standards of Annex 13,” said Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, in a written response in the Lok Sabha, according to the IANS.
The Minister also stated that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has completed 146 maintenance audits of major airlines so far this year (up to July).
Over the past three years, the regulator has undertaken a total of 683 audits of scheduled airlines.
The DGCA has established comprehensive protocols to ensure the safe operation and maintenance of aircraft. Airlines are required to comply with manufacturer-issued guidelines, including Service Bulletins, Airworthiness Directives (ADs), and Maintenance Planning Documents (MPDs).
To maintain ongoing oversight, the DGCA follows a strict audit calendar, and any delays or changes are promptly addressed and documented.
Murlidhar Mohol also shared that there have been six aircraft engine shutdowns and three Mayday call incidents reported so far this year, as per the IANS.
and SpiceJet each experienced two engine shutdowns, while Air India and Alliance Air reported one each, reported the IANS.
According to the IANS, three Mayday calls were recorded, including one involving the Air India AI 171 flight, which crashed into a building shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad, en route to London Gatwick. The other two Mayday incidents involved flights operated by IndiGo and Air India Express.
A Mayday call is an internationally recognised distress signal used in aviation and maritime sectors during life-threatening emergencies.