Families of Ahmedabad Air India Crash Victims Seek Deadline for Final Investigation Report

More than a year after the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-171, families of those who lost their lives in the accident have written to Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, expressing concerns over the ongoing investigation. In their letter, the families cited a lack of communication and questioned the transparency of the probe while placing five key demands before the government. The families urged the Ministry to ensure that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) conducts an independent flight simulator examination before releasing its final investigation report. They also requested that the bureau provide regular updates on the progress of the investigation every 15 or 30 days, keeping affected families informed throughout the process. Another major demand made in the letter is the announcement of a clear timeline for the release of the final report and its publication at the earliest. The families also called for the inclusion of a senior commercial pilot with experience flying the Boeing 787 aircraft, along with an accident investigation expert, as part of the investigation process. In addition, the victims' families requested that they should not be pressured into signing any documents that could limit or waive their legal rights to pursue action against any other parties that may be held responsible for the crash. According to the letter, the families are seeking only the truth, consistent communication, a fair and transparent investigation, and protection of their legal rights. The letter also noted that the Federation of Indian Pilots has supported the demand for independent full-flight simulator tests, stating that such tests are essential to verify the sequence of events outlined in the preliminary investigation report. Air India Flight AI-171 crashed shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad on June 12 last year. The accident claimed the lives of 229 passengers, 12 crew members, and 19 people on the ground. Earlier in June, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu had stated that the investigation was in its final stages and that the final report would be submitted soon in accordance with international regulations.