Aviation experts warn: Too early to confirm crash causes as investigation kicks off

Initial expert assessments point to potential engine failure, while a full investigation is awaited for conclusive insights

New Delhi: Aviation experts emphasize that it is too early to pinpoint the exact cause of the Ahmedabad plane crash. According to former Ministry of Civil Aviation Joint Secretary, Dr. Sanat Kaul, only a thorough investigation can reveal the true circumstances behind this tragic incident that claimed hundreds of lives.

Dr. Kaul mentioned that various speculations have emerged. While some believe that the aircraft might have been struck by a bird or suffered from a flap malfunction, he suspects an engine failure since the aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff. In addition, he noted that although Boeing has been under scrutiny recently, especially with the investigations following multiple crashes involving the 737 Max, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is generally regarded as a reliable aircraft with no reported issues of this nature until now.

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Aviation expert Sanjay Lazar described the event as “deeply disturbing and heartbreaking.” He recalled that video footage from takeoff showed that the pilot issued a ‘Mayday’ (Distress signal) call immediately after liftoff, indicating a serious emergency. Lazar suggested that this may point to an engine failure or a significant bird strike. However, he stressed that these are only preliminary observations and that only a proper investigation will uncover the actual cause.

The ill-fated flight was Air India AI171, traveling from Ahmedabad to London with 242 people on board. As the investigation proceeds, families and the nation wait for clear answers about what led to this sorrowful accident.