Air India AI171 Crash Investigation: Engine Power Loss a Key Focus

The preliminary report on the Air India AI171 crash in Ahmedabad has brought engine power loss into sharp focus. Former Civil Aviation Minister and commercial pilot Rajiv Pratap Rudy analyzed the initial findings, highlighting the pilots’ struggle to regain control.

Initial Report Suggests Normal Takeoff, Then Engine Trouble

According to Rudy, the Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) report indicates the aircraft, AI171, initially took off normally, suggesting airworthiness. The jet fuel switch was also confirmed to be in the correct position. However, the report notes that the pilots subsequently reported a loss of engine power. Further investigation will determine the cause of this power loss and what led to the engines failing.

Pilots’ Experience Key in Attempted Reignition

Captain Sabharwal and his co-pilot, drawing on their years of experience, valiantly attempted to restart the engines. The specifics of these attempts and the reasons for their lack of success remain under investigation. The ongoing investigation will delve deeper into the reasons behind the engine failure and the sequence of events leading to the tragic crash. This detailed investigation is crucial for understanding the accident and implementing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.