Pilot associations across India are fuming over the speculative theories pointing toward pilot action or error in the catastrophic crash of Air India flight AI 171. The preliminary report released on Saturday by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has sparked a frenzy of conjecture, most notably, the insinuation of pilot suicide.
According to media reports, the Indian Commercial Pilots Association (ICPA), representing the narrow-body fleet pilots of Air India, issued a scathing condemnation of the suggestion that pilot suicide may have been the cause of the June 12 crash of the Boeing 787-8 in Ahmedabad. “In the aftermath of this incident, we are deeply disturbed by speculative narratives emerging in sections of the media and public discourse—particularly the reckless and unfounded insinuation of pilot suicide. Let us be unequivocally clear: there is absolutely no basis for such a claim at this stage, and invoking such a serious allegation based on incomplete or preliminary information is not only irresponsible—it is deeply insensitive to the individuals and families involved,” the ICPA stated.
The body called such suggestions “reckless and unfounded,” adding that they were also “irresponsible” and “deeply insensitive.” The ICPA asserted that pilots are subjected to rigorous psychological and professional screening, recurrent training, and operate under the most stringent standards of safety, accountability, and mental fitness.
“To casually suggest pilot suicide in the absence of verified evidence is a gross violation of ethical reporting and a disservice to the dignity of the profession. As aviation professionals, we trust and respect the rigorous investigative protocols established by competent authorities. These inquiries are designed to uncover facts methodically and without bias. Until the official investigation is concluded and the final report is published, any speculation—especially of such a grave nature—is unacceptable and must be condemned,” a section of the ICPA statement published by media outlets reads.
This is the second such strong response from the pilot community. On Saturday, the Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA-I) also lambasted the direction the investigation has taken. “The tone and direction of the investigation suggest a bias toward pilot error. ALPA-I categorically rejects this presumption and insists on a fair, fact-based inquiry,” said ALPA-I President Sam Thomas. The association also reiterated its demand to be included “at the very least, as observers” in the ongoing air crash investigation.
The preliminary AAIB report, which spans 15 pages, centers its findings on the most probable cause of the crash—fuel starvation in both engines caused by the transition of the engine fuel control switches from ‘RUN’ to ‘CUTOFF’ within a second of each other, just after take-off. While this mechanical sequence is identified, the report does not categorically state whether these switches were manually engaged by the pilots.
According to data from the cockpit voice recorder, one pilot asked the other, “Why did you cut off the fuel?”, to which the other responded, “I did not.” However, the report provides no further elaboration on the conversation before or after this exchange and withholds the full transcript of the cockpit voice recording.
The ICPA has expressed “unwavering support” for the pilots of flight AI 171, firmly defending their conduct. “We call upon media organisations and public commentators to act with restraint, empathy, and respect for due process. The crew of AI 171 acted in line with their training and responsibilities under challenging conditions. They deserve support—not vilification based on conjecture,” the association said.
Senior aviation ministry officials, technical experts, and seasoned industry insiders have cautioned against hurried. They said the investigation is far from complete, and much could evolve as it progresses. Notably, the AAIB itself includes a disclaimer in the report, stating that it is based on “preliminary facts and evidence” and that all information contained is “preliminary and subject to change.”
Also Read: India Eyes Overhaul Of Atomic Energy Laws To Unlock Private Investment https://www.vibesofindia.com/india-eyes-overhaul-of-atomic-energy-laws-to-unlock-private-investment/
