The government has presented a key update in Parliament during the ongoing Monsoon Session regarding the investigation into the Air India flight AI-171 crash. Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol stated in response to a parliamentary question that advanced testing conducted by the aircraft Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) found no operational flaws or structural defects in the fuel control switch or its locking mechanism. Approximately 260 people lost their lives in the accident, triggering a comprehensive inquiry into the underlying causes of the crash.
Comprehensive Testing of Fuel Control Switch and Detents
Providing details on technical evaluations, the minister highlighted that OEM engineers conducted rigorous checks on control components. Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol stated,
"In the detailed inspection of the aircraft's fuel control switch, including the strength of its locking detents, nothing unusual was found."These inspections were initiated following orders from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The tests formed part of continuous airworthiness checks mandated after the grounding of similar aircraft models in February.
Thrust Control Module Evaluation Underway in Seattle
Although the initial checks on the fuel control switch yielded normal results, technical scrutiny of other flight systems continues. The government confirmed that a detailed examination of the entire thrust control module is actively being conducted at the OEM facility in Seattle. Investigating officers are awaiting the final findings from the Seattle laboratory to determine the exact mechanical and thrust behavior leading up to the incident.
AAIB Final Report Timeline and Investigation Scope
Addressing questions regarding the timeline, the government clarified that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has not caused any delay in publishing its conclusions. Investigations into major commercial aviation accidents do not follow rigid deadlines, as probes evolve when new technical evidence comes to light. All potential contributing factors and operational aspects are under thorough review. As the investigation approaches its concluding phase, the completed AAIB report will be uploaded directly to its official web portal for public access.
