Air India Crash: Black Box Data Recovered as Probe Focuses on Engine and Fuel Controls
New Delhi – Investigators have successfully retrieved crucial data from the black boxes of the Air India Boeing Dreamliner that crashed on June 12 while en route to London, according to officials from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). The aircraft erupted into a massive fireball upon impact.
During a closed-door session with a parliamentary panel on aviation, AAIB officials confirmed that “good data” had been extracted from both the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR), which were recovered in the days following the crash — one from a rooftop on June 13 and the other from the debris on June 16.
The preliminary investigation report is expected to be released by Friday.
The probe has reportedly zeroed in on the aircraft’s fuel control switch movements and engine thrust as possible factors behind the tragedy, sources told Reuters.
Meanwhile, Air India is under growing pressure. CEO Campbell Wilson appeared before the parliamentary committee and briefed lawmakers on the airline’s actions post-crash.
In a related development, the EU Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) announced it would investigate Air India Express, the carrier’s budget subsidiary. A Reuters report previously revealed that the airline failed to replace Airbus A320 engine components and falsified compliance records.
India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has also reprimanded Air India for operating three Airbus aircraft with overdue safety checks on emergency escape slides — another blow to the airline’s safety record.
Both the AAIB and the aviation ministry declined to comment on the matter.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.