Pratt & Whitney Marks 100 Years of Military Engine Innovation

China Opens New Wind Tunnel for Low-Altitude Aircraft Testing China has inaugurated its first 4.5-meter-class wind tunnel, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to testing low-altitude aircraft, including drones, air taxis, and other emerging aerial vehicles. Situated in the Greater Bay Area, this new installation is expected to significantly accelerate the development of technologies vital to logistics, urban transportation, and surveillance—sectors where low-altitude flight is increasingly critical. Advancing Aerospace Testing Capabilities Wind tunnels are indispensable in aviation, providing engineers with a controlled environment to evaluate aircraft designs and assess aerodynamic factors such as wind resistance. Compared to outdoor test flights, wind tunnel testing offers a faster, safer, and more cost-effective alternative. The newly launched facility combines traditional wind tunnel technology with an innovative ‘windshaper’ system, allowing for rapid and precise testing cycles tailored to medium-sized drones and small crewed aircraft. Previously, companies faced substantial delays when seeking access to wind tunnel testing, often waiting over a year for slots at the heavily booked Harbin wind tunnel, which is geographically distant from many of China’s aerospace hubs. Shang Zuming, director of the wind tunnel testing platform at the Greater Bay Area Research Academy (GARA), highlighted the improvement: “There were companies that waited for over a year for a testing slot in Harbin. Now, with the wind tunnel launched in the Greater Bay Area, the entire process for wind tunnel experiments, from coordination to testing, takes just three to four months.” Industry Challenges and Global Implications The launch of this facility occurs amid broader challenges within the aerospace sector. Industry leaders have underscored ongoing supply chain complexities that may hinder the availability of advanced materials and technologies essential for low-altitude aircraft testing. These constraints could slow the pace of new aircraft development and market introduction. Market analysts observe that China’s intensified focus on aerospace innovation is likely to increase competition domestically, potentially triggering aggressive price-cutting strategies. Chinese authorities have recently addressed concerns about unhealthy competition, stressing the importance of sustainable growth as the nation advances in strategic sectors such as space exploration and renewable energy. On the international stage, China’s progress is prompting responses from other countries. The United States and other competitors may seek to upgrade their own wind tunnel facilities to maintain technological parity, especially as China accelerates its capabilities in both civil and military aerospace domains. As operations commence at the new wind tunnel, it is positioned not only to streamline domestic aircraft development but also to influence the global aerospace research landscape and competitive dynamics.

Delta Airlines Implements AI-Driven Dynamic Pricing for Flight Tickets Delta Airlines has introduced an artificial intelligence system to transform its ticket pricing strategy, aligning with a broader industry shift toward dynamic pricing models. In collaboration with Israeli startup Fetcherr, the airline has deployed an AI platform that processes extensive real-time data to adjust fares on an individual basis. This system evaluates a variety of factors, including flight-specific elements such as timing, route, and competitive landscape, alongside wider economic indicators and customer behaviors like browsing history and previous bookings. The objective is to tailor prices uniquely for each passenger, optimizing revenue while adapting to fluctuating market demand. Expansion and Regulatory Considerations The airline began discreetly testing this AI-driven pricing last year, initially applying it to approximately 1% of its ticket inventory. Encouraged by favorable outcomes, Delta has since increased the scope to 3% of fares, with plans to extend dynamic pricing to 20% of domestic tickets by the end of 2025, as stated by Delta President Glen Hauenstein. The company maintains that its AI pricing system adheres strictly to federal regulations and avoids discriminatory practices. A spokesperson highlighted that all fares remain publicly filed and are determined solely by trip-related factors such as advance purchase timing and cabin class, with robust safeguards implemented to ensure compliance with legal standards. Despite these assurances, the introduction of AI-based pricing has ignited debate regarding transparency and fairness. Critics question the opacity of the AI’s decision-making processes and express concern over the system’s potential to maximize revenue at the expense of consumer trust. Challenges and Industry Implications Delta faces several challenges in implementing dynamic pricing. Consumer dissatisfaction may arise from unpredictable fare fluctuations, potentially leading to backlash. Furthermore, regulatory scrutiny is expected to intensify as authorities evaluate the fairness and transparency of AI-driven pricing mechanisms. The airline’s adoption of this technology may also prompt competitors to accelerate their own AI initiatives, intensifying competition and further transforming airfare determination. Market responses are anticipated to be varied. While some travelers may accept personalized pricing as an inevitable evolution in the digital economy, others may perceive it as an aggressive revenue extraction strategy. As the airline industry continues to evolve, Delta’s pioneering use of AI in dynamic pricing could establish a benchmark for pricing strategies not only within aviation but across other sectors embracing digital innovation.

The Importance of Cockpit Ergonomics US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chair Jennifer Homendy has cautioned against premature conclusions regarding the cause of the Air India flight AI 171 crash, which some US media outlets have attributed to deliberate pilot action. Homendy emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, noting that India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) recently released only a preliminary report. Such complex investigations require considerable time to reach definitive findings. The preliminary report revealed that the Boeing 787’s fuel control switches transitioned from “RUN” to “CUTOFF” shortly after takeoff, a detail that has fueled speculation about pilot involvement. These switches are intentionally designed with bracket and stop lock mechanisms to prevent accidental activation, further complicating assumptions about the cause. This incident has reignited discussion on the critical role of cockpit ergonomics—the discipline concerned with designing cockpit environments and interfaces to optimize pilot performance and safety. Every aspect of cockpit design, from control placement to seating arrangements, is meticulously engineered to reduce errors and enhance operational efficiency. Understanding Cockpit Ergonomics Ergonomics, often referred to as “human factors,” is defined by the International Ergonomics Association as the study of interactions between humans and other system elements, with the goal of improving both human well-being and overall system performance. The term originates from the Greek words *ergon* (work) and *nomos* (laws), underscoring its foundation as the “science of work.” In aviation, ergonomics seeks to minimize both the physical and cognitive demands placed on pilots, thereby making aircraft operation safer and more manageable. Evolution of Ergonomics in Aviation Historically, early aircraft designs frequently neglected ergonomic principles. Although the US National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics recognized as early as 1921 the importance of instruments that allowed “the easiest possible reading and manipulation,” these considerations were not consistently integrated into cockpit layouts. In 1924, French aviator Félix Devaluez attributed many crashes to “pilot error” and advocated for improved training and technical examinations rather than design modifications. A significant shift occurred approaching World War II, when aviation psychology units in Britain and the United States began to treat pilot error as a design issue rather than solely a matter of personnel or training. As noted by Professor Steven J. Landry in the *Handbook of Human Factors and Ergonomics* (2021), this marked a pivotal moment in aviation safety. In 1951, US Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Paul Fitts edited a seminal report that identified key human factor challenges and underscored the necessity of cockpit designs that accommodate human limitations. Current Challenges and Industry Response Contemporary cockpit ergonomics faces evolving challenges as technological advancements introduce increasingly complex control systems. Ensuring these systems remain intuitive and reduce pilot workload is a central concern. The aerospace industry is responding with heightened demand for advanced, integrated control solutions. Companies such as BAE Systems are developing proprietary systems that offer enhanced ergonomic benefits, including fully integrated controls designed to streamline pilot interaction. Regulatory agencies are also adapting to these changes. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), for instance, is exploring innovative concepts like single-lever thrust control, which could redefine industry standards and influence pilot training methodologies. These developments underscore the enduring importance of ergonomics in advancing aviation safety. As investigations into incidents like AI 171 proceed, the renewed focus on cockpit ergonomics highlights the essential role of design in preventing errors and supporting pilot performance.

NTSB Refutes Media Speculation on Air India AI-171 Crash Investigation The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued a firm rebuttal to recent media reports concerning the preliminary investigation into the Air India AI-171 crash. Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy characterized these reports as "premature and speculative," urging both the public and the press to withhold judgment until the official findings are published by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB). Official Statements and Media Claims The NTSB’s response follows heightened scrutiny after several international media outlets cited aviation expert Byron Bailey, who speculated that the deactivation of fuel control switches might suggest "suicide by the pilot." The NTSB categorically denied these claims, emphasizing that such assertions are unsubstantiated and not supported by the preliminary investigation report. On July 17, the AAIB also appealed to the public and media to avoid "selective, unverified reporting" in the wake of the tragedy. The bureau reaffirmed that the investigation is being conducted "in a rigorous and most professional manner in accordance with international protocols." It acknowledged the incident’s high-profile nature, noting the widespread public attention and shock it has generated. Broader Controversies and Industry Impact Beyond the technical aspects of the investigation, the situation has been further complicated by allegations from British law firm Stewarts Law. The firm accused Air India of pressuring families of crash victims to disclose financial dependencies, a claim the airline has firmly denied. These allegations have intensified scrutiny on Air India as stakeholders closely observe the airline’s handling of the aftermath. The NTSB’s denial and the ongoing investigation have also elicited reactions within the aviation industry. Market analysts suggest that the increased attention could affect perceptions of Air India’s safety standards and operational integrity. Competitors may leverage the situation to underscore their own safety records, potentially influencing consumer preferences and investor confidence in the sector. As the investigation proceeds, both the NTSB and AAIB emphasize the necessity of relying on official information rather than conjecture. They have called for patience, reaffirming their dedication to a thorough and transparent inquiry into the causes of the AI-171 crash.

Dubai Plans to Launch Air Taxi Service in 2026 Dubai is preparing to revolutionize urban transportation with the introduction of its first fleet of electric flying taxis, scheduled to commence operations in 2026. This initiative, developed in collaboration with California-based Joby Aviation, aims to drastically reduce travel times across the city. The service will operate from four strategically positioned vertiports, allowing passengers to book rides via a dedicated mobile application. Fares are expected to be competitive, comparable to those of Uber Black, while offering passengers panoramic aerial views of the city. Strategic Vision and Market Positioning This ambitious project forms a key component of Dubai’s broader strategy to establish itself as a global leader in advanced air mobility. Through its partnership with Joby Aviation, Dubai has secured an exclusive six-year agreement granting it access to the air taxi market. This exclusivity is anticipated to provide the city with a significant competitive advantage in the region, potentially attracting increased interest from investors and travelers eager to experience cutting-edge urban transport solutions. Regulatory and Technological Challenges Despite the promise of this innovative service, several challenges remain. Regulatory approval is a critical hurdle, as authorities must develop new frameworks to ensure the safe integration of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into Dubai’s airspace. Safety concerns and the technological readiness of the vehicles will be subject to rigorous scrutiny in the lead-up to the launch. These factors will play a decisive role in the successful deployment of the air taxi service. Emerging Competition and Industry Impact Dubai’s announcement has already heightened attention within the advanced air mobility sector. Regional competitors, including Abu Dhabi, are actively testing their own air taxi services, while global companies such as Archer Aviation are accelerating efforts to capture market share. The competitive landscape is expected to intensify as more cities and corporations strive to introduce similar technologies. Dubai’s air taxi initiative highlights the city’s commitment to innovation and sustainable urban mobility. If successfully implemented, the service could serve as a model for metropolitan areas worldwide, potentially reshaping the future of urban transportation.

US and China Lead as India’s Aviation Market Shows Rapid Growth, Jefferies Reports The United States and China continue to dominate the global aviation sector, jointly holding the top positions in passenger numbers. Nevertheless, India has emerged as the world’s third-largest aviation market, driven by a surge in air travel demand, rapid infrastructure development, and expanding international connectivity, according to a recent report by Jefferies. India’s Aviation Market Poised for Explosive Growth Jefferies projects that India’s aviation market could triple in size over the next two decades. Although India accounts for nearly 20% of the global population, it currently contributes only 4% to worldwide air traffic, highlighting the country’s vast potential for growth. This expansion is fueled by low air travel penetration, a growing middle class, and substantial investments in airport infrastructure and fleet expansion by both government and private sector stakeholders. Leading industry players such as IndiGo and GMR Airports stand to benefit significantly from this upward trajectory. IndiGo, India’s largest airline by market share, is aggressively expanding its fleet and international routes. The airline aims to increase the proportion of its international operations from 30% to 40% of total capacity by 2030, underscoring the rising importance of global connectivity for Indian travelers and inbound tourism. Competitive Dynamics and International Interest India’s aviation boom has attracted considerable attention from global airlines and investors. International carriers are making strategic efforts to increase their market presence, while Indian airlines are scaling up capacity to meet growing demand. For instance, airlines such as Royal Jordanian and IndiGo have announced new routes and expanded services, intensifying competition across both domestic and international segments. However, foreign carriers face significant challenges in the Indian market, including strong competition from established local airlines, regulatory complexities, and the necessity to secure additional bilateral rights to operate more flights. These obstacles have encouraged international players to form strategic partnerships and alliances with Indian carriers to extend their reach and capitalize on the country’s rapidly expanding passenger base. Infrastructure and Market Outlook India’s aviation sector is undergoing a transformative phase, supported by robust government and private investment in airport capacity and modernization. The introduction of new air routes, enhanced airport infrastructure, and aggressive fleet acquisitions are expected to sustain the projected surge in passenger traffic. Forecasts from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airbus indicate that India’s air traffic could triple over the next 20 years, driven by both leisure and business travel. Despite short-term challenges such as supply chain delays and infrastructure gaps, the long-term fundamentals remain strong. The global airline industry is experiencing a resurgence, with robust leisure demand and a rebound in business travel fueling growth worldwide. India’s unique demographic and economic factors position it as the next major force in global aviation, with domestic and international carriers alike competing for a share of this rapidly expanding market.

NTSB Chief Denounces Speculative Media Coverage of Air India Ahmedabad Crash The chair of the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Jennifer Homendy, has publicly criticized recent media reports concerning the causes of the Air India Flight AI 171 crash in Ahmedabad as “premature and speculative.” Her remarks align with an earlier appeal from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which urged the media to exercise restraint and accuracy while the investigation remains ongoing. Calls for Caution Amid Ongoing Investigation Homendy’s statement came in response to reports from several US news outlets suggesting that deliberate pilot action may have caused the June 12 crash, which resulted in the deaths of 260 people—241 of the 242 passengers and crew on board, as well as 19 individuals on the ground. Emphasizing the complexity of such investigations, Homendy noted, “Recent media reports on the Air India 171 crash are premature and speculative. India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau just released its preliminary report. Investigations of this magnitude take time.” She further stressed that all inquiries should be directed to the AAIB and reaffirmed the NTSB’s full support for the Indian agency’s ongoing work. The AAIB’s preliminary report, published last week, detailed confusion within the cockpit and a sudden interruption in engine fuel supply moments before the crash. However, it refrained from identifying any definitive cause. AAIB Director General GVG Yugandhar underscored that the preliminary findings are intended solely to present factual information about the sequence of events, not to assign blame or determine root causes. He criticized certain international media outlets for drawing conclusions based on selective and unverified information, describing such speculation as “irresponsible” while the investigation is still active. Industry Leaders Urge Patience and Accuracy Air India’s CEO, Campbell Wilson, also emphasized that the investigation remains far from complete and cautioned against premature judgments. The absence of regular updates and official briefings has contributed to speculation and misplaced blame, but both Indian and US officials have reiterated the necessity of a thorough and impartial inquiry. “This is not the time to create public anxiety or angst towards the safety of the Indian aviation industry, particularly on the basis of unfounded facts,” Yugandhar stated. He assured that the AAIB will provide technical updates and information of public interest as appropriate, with the final report expected to comprehensively detail the root causes of the tragedy. The crash of Flight AI 171 stands as the deadliest aviation disaster involving an Indian airline in four decades. As families of the victims await definitive answers, officials continue to stress the importance of patience and accuracy. The AAIB has affirmed that the investigation is being conducted rigorously and professionally, adhering to international standards. Both the NTSB and AAIB have appealed to the media and the public to refrain from speculation and to allow investigators the necessary time to establish the true causes of this devastating accident.

Delta Airlines Flight Returns to Los Angeles Following Mid-Air Engine Fire A Delta Air Lines flight en route to Atlanta was compelled to make an emergency return to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on July 18, 2025, after its left engine caught fire shortly after takeoff. The incident involved Flight DL446, a Boeing 767-400ER registered as N836MH, and has raised important questions regarding aviation safety protocols and the airline’s crisis management. Incident Details and Emergency Response Flight DL446 departed LAX on schedule, destined for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Shortly after liftoff, while climbing over the Pacific Ocean, the flight crew detected abnormal readings from the left engine, a General Electric CF6. Within minutes, the pilots declared an emergency and requested an immediate return to LAX. Radar data indicated the aircraft circled over the Downey and Paramount areas as the crew executed emergency procedures. Air traffic controllers coordinated closely with Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) emergency teams to ensure a swift response. Fire and rescue units, including Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) teams and ground vehicles, were dispatched to the airport. The Boeing 767 landed safely, and fire crews promptly confirmed that the flames had been extinguished. None of the 200 passengers and crew sustained injuries. Throughout the ordeal, passengers remained calm, reassured by the captain’s announcements. Emergency personnel conducted thorough post-landing inspections before towing the aircraft to a maintenance area for further evaluation. Industry Impact and Ongoing Investigations This incident occurs amid heightened scrutiny of airline safety, following recent events such as an American Airlines flight returning to Las Vegas due to engine complications. Delta now faces the challenge of managing passenger concerns and maintaining confidence in its safety standards. Aviation authorities are expected to launch a detailed investigation into the cause of the engine fire, the findings of which could influence Delta’s reputation and competitive standing. In the broader context, rival carriers including United Airlines and American Airlines may leverage the situation to highlight their own safety records, potentially intensifying competition within the U.S. airline industry. Delta’s effectiveness in crisis management and transparent communication with passengers and regulators will be pivotal in shaping public perception in the aftermath of the incident. Public and Media Response The emergency landing attracted significant public attention, amplified by live coverage from aviation enthusiasts, including streams on the “LA Flights” YouTube channel. While the absence of injuries was a relief, the event has reignited discussions about airline safety and operational reliability. As investigations continue, Delta Airlines will be under pressure to reassure travelers and stakeholders of its commitment to safety amid increasing industry scrutiny.

Joby Aviation Advances Plans for Commercial Flying Cars Expanding Manufacturing Capacity and Commercial Readiness Joby Aviation, a Santa Cruz-based aerospace company, is making significant strides toward the commercial deployment of flying cars, transforming a once futuristic concept into an imminent reality. The company has announced a substantial expansion of its manufacturing facility in Marina, California, which now has the capacity to produce up to 24 electric air taxis annually, equating to two aircraft per month. This development is complemented by additional production capabilities being established in Dayton, Ohio, and ongoing piloted test flights in Dubai. Together, these efforts signal Joby’s transition from prototype development to full-scale production in the urban air mobility sector. The timing of this manufacturing milestone coincides with the completion of piloted test flights in Dubai, marking the commencement of Joby’s commercial readiness program in the United Arab Emirates. In collaboration with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, the company is preparing to initiate passenger operations as early as 2026, a timeline that is increasingly within reach. Eric Allison, Joby’s Chief Product Officer, emphasized the importance of speed, scale, and precision manufacturing in reimagining urban mobility, highlighting the company’s expanded operational footprint in both California and Ohio as key to achieving these goals. From Prototype to Production: Advanced Manufacturing and Performance Unlike many competitors in the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) market who remain focused on prototype demonstrations, Joby is producing FAA-certified aircraft designed for practical urban transport. These aircraft feature vertical takeoff capabilities, reach top speeds of 200 miles per hour, and operate with near-silent noise levels. Each vehicle is configured to carry one pilot and four passengers, targeting short, high-value routes such as the 12-minute journey from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah—a trip that currently takes approximately 45 minutes by car. Joby’s 435,000-square-foot facility in Marina employs cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, including 3D printing and data-driven quality control processes. The workforce benefits from specialized training provided in part by Toyota engineers through a strategic partnership. The site also houses pilot simulators, ground testing areas, and laboratories dedicated to FAA certification. Meanwhile, the Dayton facility, located in the historic birthplace of aviation, is being prepared to scale production to 500 aircraft annually. This expansion is supported by state grants and a growing pool of advanced manufacturing talent. Dubai as the Launchpad for Commercial Operations Although Joby’s manufacturing operations are based in the United States, its initial commercial passenger services will be launched in Dubai. The city has granted Joby exclusive rights to operate air taxis for six years, with plans to establish a comprehensive air taxi network centered around a vertiport currently under construction at Dubai International Airport. This initiative forms part of Dubai’s broader strategy to invest in smart mobility solutions, integrating eVTOL aircraft into its transportation infrastructure as a premium and rapid transit option. Challenges and Competitive Landscape Despite the rapid progress, Joby faces several challenges, particularly in the evolving regulatory environment for air taxis. Aviation authorities worldwide are still developing standards to govern this emerging mode of transport. While market interest is robust, especially in major urban centers such as Los Angeles and New York, Joby contends with competition from other eVTOL manufacturers like Archer Aviation, which is also advancing flight trials and preparing for commercial launches. Strategic partnerships remain a cornerstone of Joby’s approach to mitigating operational risks and accelerating market entry. Collaborations with established companies, including Delta Air Lines, provide critical support in navigating the complexities of commercial aviation. On the technical front, Joby recently completed a nine-hour flight with a hydrogen-powered uncrewed aircraft, demonstrating ongoing innovation. However, the long-term commercial viability of hydrogen-electric propulsion technology is still under assessment. As Joby’s aircraft begin to emerge from the assembly line and approach commercial deployment, the central question shifts from the feasibility of flying cars to the readiness of cities and regulatory bodies to accommodate this transformative mode of transportation.

Air India Engine Shutdown: Pilots’ Body Highlights FADEC Fuel Cut-Off Theory Emerging Theories on Engine Failure The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has suggested that a possible fuel switch error may have caused the catastrophic engine failure on Air India Flight 171. However, new perspectives are focusing on the aircraft’s advanced electronic systems, particularly the Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC), as a potential factor in the incident. Preliminary reports indicate that the crash was initiated by the sudden movement of fuel-control switches to the "cut-off" position, which resulted in both engines being starved of fuel. Cockpit voice recordings reveal that the captain may have cut the fuel flow while the first officer was at the controls. Despite these findings, the Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has urged caution against attributing blame to the crew based on early assumptions, emphasizing the need to consider all possible technical causes. The Role of FADEC and Related Systems At the heart of the latest theory is the FADEC system, often described as the "brain" of modern aircraft such as the Boeing 787. FADEC is responsible for monitoring and managing critical engine functions, including fuel flow and engine speed, and it has the capability to override pilot commands based on sensor inputs. This system operates in conjunction with the Electronic Engine Controller (EEC) and the Thrust Control Malfunction Accommodation (TCMA) systems. The FIP has raised concerns that a malfunction within these interconnected systems—potentially triggered by faulty sensor data—could have caused FADEC to shut down both engines without any manual input from the crew. This possibility challenges the initial narrative by suggesting that the engine failure may have led to an automatic movement of the fuel switches to the cut-off position, rather than a manual error by the pilots. Expert Insights and Calls for Thorough Investigation Aviation attorney Mary Schiavo, speaking to FinancialExpress.com, underscored concerns regarding the TCMA system, which informs FADEC whether the aircraft is on the ground or airborne. She referenced previous incidents, including a 2019 All Nippon Airways (ANA) Boeing 787 flight where FADEC triggered a dual engine shutdown due to erroneous sensor input. Schiavo also mentioned an ongoing investigation into a 2025 United Airlines 787 incident involving uncommanded dives, believed to be linked to software or computer malfunctions. In light of these concerns, the FIP has called for a comprehensive reassessment of the roles played by FADEC, EEC, and TCMA malfunctions in the Air India crash. The pilots’ association is urging investigators to meticulously analyze data from the Flight Data Recorder (FDR), Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), and relevant Boeing service bulletins before reaching any conclusions. In response to the preliminary findings, India’s aviation regulator has mandated inspections of Boeing fuel switches across airline fleets. Meanwhile, families of the victims continue to seek detailed answers as the investigation unfolds. The FIP stresses the importance of a thorough and impartial inquiry, cautioning against premature judgments regarding crew actions until all technical possibilities have been fully examined.