After The Crash
(Source: The Indian Express, Editorial Page)
Also Read: The Indian Express Editorial Analysis: 14 June 2025
Also Read: The Hindu Editorial Analysis: 14 June 2025
| Topic: GS Paper 3 – Disaster Management, Infrastructure (Aviation Safety) |
| Context |
| A tragic crash of Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, near Ahmedabad has sparked national debate on aviation safety and the role of regulators like DGCA. With over 250 lives lost, with this Ahmedabad Air plane crash becomes one of the deadliest air crashes in India in over a decade. |
Background:
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The crash occurred minutes after take-off and targeted a densely populated residential area.
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The Dreamliner was believed to be among the safest wide-body jets globally.
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This marks the first fatal incident involving this aircraft model in India.
Technical and Safety Oversight:
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Previous alerts were issued by the FAA on engine and electrical system failures in Dreamliners.
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India needs improved audit systems for early detection of technical anomalies.
Regulatory & Institutional Lapses:
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DGCA must coordinate a neutral probe as per ICAO standards.
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India lacks a fully autonomous air accident investigation board; the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) needs greater independence and funding.
Crew Competence and Training:
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Reports suggest the pilot was unable to gain altitude despite correct take-off configuration.
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Simulator training on newer emergency scenarios must become mandatory.
Manufacturer Accountability:
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Boeing’s safety record has come under global scrutiny since the 737 Max controversy.
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The need for transparent procurement and maintenance logs is vital for national carriers like Air India.
Emergency Response Infrastructure:
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Civil aviation safety also includes post-crash response mechanisms.
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Urban vulnerability must be assessed to avoid residential zones near flight paths.
Conclusion / Way Forward:
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Strengthen DGCA with statutory backing and operational independence.
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Modernize training programs for pilots with AI-based risk simulations.
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Institutionalize audits of aircraft procurement, servicing, and repair history.
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Adopt global best practices (e.g., USA’s NTSB model) for accident investigations.
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Promote transparency by publishing black box findings and maintenance logs.
India’s Major Air Crashes (2000–2025)
| Year | Flight | Location | Fatalities | Cause (Provisional) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | AI 171 | Ahmedabad | 250+ | Technical failure under investigation |
| 2020 | AI Express IX1344 | Kozhikode | 21 | Runway overshoot, poor weather |
| 2010 | AI Express IX812 | Mangalore | 158 | Pilot error, runway excursion |
| 1996 | Sri Lankan + Kazakhstan | Charkhi Dadri | 349 | Mid-air collision, ATC lapse |
| Practice Question: “In the absence of institutional neutrality, the right to free speech is rendered meaningless.” Critically examine. (GS Paper 2 – 10 Marks – 150 Words) |
