NEW DELHI, July 15: Air India CEO Campbell Wilson on Monday said that the preliminary report by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) into the July 12 crash of a Boeing 787 jet found no evidence of mechanical or maintenance failure, raising questions over possible human error. Speaking on the findings of the AAIB’s initial report, Wilson stated, “There is no indication of any aircraft or engine malfunction in the crash involving the Air India flight. The report confirms that the aircraft was airworthy and well-maintained.”
The aircraft was operating a scheduled international flight from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick when it crashed just seconds after take-off, plummeting into a densely populated area. The accident claimed 260 lives, including both passengers and people on the ground, making it one of India’s deadliest aviation disasters in recent years.
The AAIB released its preliminary findings on Saturday, ruling out mechanical failure as a cause. The focus has now shifted to human factors, including pilot error, which has triggered sharp reactions from pilot associations.
The pilots’ union expressed concern over what it described as a “narrative push” implicating the crew without conclusive evidence. “It appears the investigation is prematurely pointing toward pilot error,” the association said in a statement, demanding that their representatives be allowed to participate in the inquiry process as observers.
The union also questioned the transparency and objectivity of the probe, calling for a broader, multi-stakeholder review to ensure fairness. “This is a complex incident that requires comprehensive analysis, not speculation,” the statement added.
The AAIB has not yet made any official comment on the pilot union’s concerns but has indicated that a full report will be published after a complete forensic and operational analysis.
Meanwhile, Air India continues to cooperate with investigators and has assured full support to the families of the victims. “We remain committed to uncovering the full truth behind this tragedy,” Wilson said.
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