Expert Analyzes Possible Causes of Air India Crash

Expert Analyzes Possible Causes of Air India Crash

The recent crash of an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner in Ahmedabad has prompted extensive discussion regarding its potential causes and the broader implications for the aviation industry. While the official investigation remains ongoing and experts urge caution against premature conclusions, several scenarios have emerged in public discourse. Examining these possibilities alongside the wider industry impact provides valuable insight into aircraft design challenges and the operational hurdles confronting Air India and the global aviation sector.

Potential Technical Causes

One of the primary areas of focus is engine failure. Modern twin-engine aircraft like the Boeing 787 are designed to safely continue takeoff and climb even if one engine fails, a critical certification standard. However, the simultaneous loss of both engines represents a rare and severe emergency. Historical precedents, such as the 2001 Air Transat Flight 236 incident, illustrate that dual engine failure can sometimes be managed successfully if the aircraft maintains sufficient altitude and speed to glide to a safe landing. The takeoff and landing phases, however, are particularly vulnerable due to limited altitude and reaction time for pilots.

Bird strikes remain a significant risk factor for engine failure. The 2009 “Miracle on the Hudson,” where US Airways Flight 1549 lost both engines after a bird strike shortly after takeoff, highlights the crucial role of altitude, speed, and pilot decision-making in managing such emergencies. The robustness of aircraft design and the effectiveness of crew training are decisive in determining outcomes during these infrequent but critical events.

Another technical consideration involves the landing gear. Normally, the landing gear is retracted shortly after liftoff to minimize aerodynamic drag. If the gear remains extended, the resulting drag can severely impair the aircraft’s climb performance, especially when maximum thrust is required. This scenario can exacerbate difficulties during the initial climb phase and complicate emergency responses.

Industry and Operational Implications

Beyond the technical aspects, the Air India crash carries significant ramifications for the aviation industry. Analysts at GlobalData anticipate that the incident will lead to a tightening of the aviation reinsurance market, as insurers reassess risk profiles in light of the crash. In response, the Indian government has initiated inspections of all Boeing 787 aircraft operating within the country, signaling increased regulatory scrutiny of the model’s safety.

The crash also presents a substantial challenge to Air India’s ongoing transformation under its Vihaan.AI program, which seeks to elevate the airline to a world-class global carrier. The incident’s impact on Air India’s reputation and operational momentum remains uncertain as investigations continue. Speculation regarding pilot error, notably raised by Australian airline Captain Byron Bailey, adds complexity to the narrative and underscores the necessity of a comprehensive and impartial inquiry.

As the investigation advances, it is imperative to await the official findings before drawing definitive conclusions. The interplay of technical, operational, and industry factors underscores the complexity of modern aviation and the critical importance of maintaining rigorous safety standards. The results of this inquiry will not only elucidate the causes of the Air India crash but may also influence future airline safety protocols and industry practices.