Air India Ahmedabad Flight Crash: India Rejects Help From UN Aviation Investigator

India has declined an offer from a UN aviation investigator to assist in the investigation of the Air India crash that resulted in 274 fatalities. The decision comes amid criticism from safety experts regarding delays in analysing crucial black box data. Two senior sources familiar with the situation confirmed this information to Reuters.

The United Nations aviation agency had taken an unusual step by offering one of its investigators to aid India following the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crash on June 12 in Ahmedabad. This tragic incident marked the deadliest aviation accident globally in a decade. However, Indian authorities refused the offer, despite previous instances where the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) had been asked for assistance in similar situations.

Flight Recorder Data and Investigation Protocols

India's civil aviation ministry announced that flight recorder data was downloaded approximately two weeks after the crash. Safety experts had previously raised concerns about the lack of information regarding the probe, including questions about the status of the combined black box unit recovered on June 13 and a second set found on June 16.

There were also uncertainties about whether the recorders would be analysed in India or sent to the US, given that the National Transportation Safety Board is involved in the investigation. The Indian government held only one press conference on this matter, during which no questions were entertained.

International Protocols and Media Updates

An official from India's aviation ministry, who wished to remain anonymous, stated earlier this week that all ICAO protocols are being followed. The official also mentioned that media representatives have been informed about significant developments related to the investigation.

Under international rules known as "Annex 13," decisions regarding where to read flight recorders should be made promptly, as evidence obtained could prevent future tragedies. Despite these guidelines, India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), leading this probe, did not respond to requests for comment.

Previous ICAO Involvement

The ICAO has previously deployed investigators for certain probes when requested, such as during incidents involving a Malaysian plane in 2014 and a Ukrainian jetliner in 2020. However, this time around, ICAO's request for observer status was declined by Indian authorities. Times Now first reported this news on Thursday.

A preliminary report on most air crashes is typically expected within about 30 days after an accident. These incidents often result from multiple factors coming together. As of now, both ICAO and AAIB have not provided further comments on their involvement or findings related to this tragic event.