The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has issued a legal notice to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), objecting to the summoning of a pilot who is related to the late Captain Sumit Sabharwal, the commander of Air India flight AI-171 that crashed with 260 fatalities.
According to media reports, Air India recently informed Captain Varun Anand that he had been called by the AAIB in connection with the ongoing investigation into the deadly crash.
However, the pilots’ body has strongly opposed the move, stating that the investigation agency has failed to explain the purpose behind the summons, media reports said.
In its communication, the FIP argued that Captain Anand has no operational or professional connection to flight AI-171. The federation clarified that he was not involved in flight planning, was not present at the accident site, and does not qualify as a factual, technical, or expert witness in the case. The only link, it said, is his familial relationship with Captain Sabharwal.
The pilots’ association has expressed concern that investigators may be attempting to build a predetermined narrative by focusing on the deceased flight crew. It warned that such an approach could unfairly shift responsibility onto individuals who are no longer alive to present their account.
Citing provisions under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) framework, the federation stated that calling family members as part of an accident investigation is not permitted. Despite raising objections, the FIP said Captain Anand has conveyed his willingness to cooperate with the probe through video conferencing.
Probe into AI-171 Crash Continues
The AAIB is continuing its investigation into the Air India 171 crash, one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent years. The inquiry is examining multiple aspects, including aircraft systems, cockpit data, flight operations, and air traffic control communication, to determine the sequence of events that led to the tragedy.
Investigators are also reviewing flight data and cockpit voice recorders, maintenance records, and operational procedures to establish whether technical failure, human factors, or external conditions contributed to the crash. Authorities have maintained that the probe will follow international standards and that conclusions will be drawn only after a comprehensive analysis of all available evidence.
Also Read: NTSB Chief Slams ‘Irresponsible’ Media Speculation In Air India Crash Probe https://www.vibesofindia.com/ntsb-chief-slams-irresponsible-media-speculation-in-air-india-crash-probe/
