Investigators in India are currently examining the black boxes recovered from a Boeing 787 Dreamliner that crashed last week, resulting in the tragic loss of over 270 lives. These essential devices will shed light on cockpit communications and engine data, crucial for determining the cause of the disaster.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau of India is leading the probe, aided by experts from the UK, US, and Boeing. Amit Singh, an aviation expert, emphasised the significance of the flight data and cockpit voice recorders in reconstructing the flight’s final moments. The cockpit voice recorder captures pilot conversations, alarm signals, and any distress calls made before the crash, while the flight data recorder logs engine performance and control settings. These devices are specifically designed to withstand crash impacts, and Singh noted that a complete analysis of the data will be pivotal in revealing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Reports indicate that the aircraft issued a mayday call prior to the crash. Investigators will also review CCTV footage from the vicinity and interview witnesses to develop a clearer picture of what transpired. Additional factors for consideration include the pilot’s training history, the aircraft’s load at the time of the flight, and the operational history of the aircraft regarding any previous issues.
Expert Aurobindo Handa, former director of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, warned that the investigation will be lengthy due to the extensive damage inflicted on the aircraft. Adhering to the UN’s Manual of Accident Investigation, known as “DOC 9756”, the team will employ established procedures to identify the most likely cause. Handa underscored the importance of assessing the condition of the black boxes, as the heat from the wreck could exceed the devices’ thresholds.
In response to the incident, the Indian government has initiated a high-level committee tasked with investigating the crash’s causes and developing protocols to enhance aircraft emergency response in the future. This committee is expected to deliver a preliminary report within three months. Meanwhile, Air India’s fleet of 33 Boeing 787 Dreamliners is undergoing rigorous inspections and maintenance checks to avert potential future accidents. Notably, the crashed aircraft was 12 years old, and while Boeing dreams of a solid safety record, concerns linger about safety issues across various aircraft models. This incident marks the first deadly crash involving the 787 Dreamliner in its 16 years of operation, amidst a global fleet of approximately 1,200.