‘Govt can’t cap airfares for an entire year’: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu in Lok Sabha
The Minister further stated that the government can interfere and cap the airfares only under "extraordinary circumstances".
The investigation into the Air India AI-171 crash is nearing completion, with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) expected to submit its final report soon, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said on Monday.
The minister said the probe is progressing as per international investigation standards, and the authorities are ensuring that every required step is followed before the final findings are released.
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The Air India AI-171 flight crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12 last year, killing 260 people, including 229 passengers, 12 crew members, and 19 people on the ground.
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‘We are all waiting’ for final AAIB report
Speaking about the status of the investigation, Ram Mohan Naidu said, “We are all waiting… AAIB doesn’t want to unnecessarily speed up any process. They want to follow the protocol very strictly. This is an international protocol, so they can’t miss any step…”
He added, “They have to focus on the investigation very thoroughly… So, they are taking their time. But because it is in the last leg, that is why they issued the statement. They might complete the investigation and present us with the final report very soon.”
AAIB examining all factors before final findings
The AAIB, which is investigating the crash involving Air India Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8, said it has made significant progress in analysing aircraft systems, flight recorder data, and engine-related components.
The bureau said the investigation team has carried out a detailed examination of technical, operational, organisational, and human factors linked to the accident over the past year.
The process has involved accredited representatives, technical advisers, and subject-matter experts from relevant organisations.
The AAIB said, “The evidence gathered, and the results of various examinations are currently being analysed in a comprehensive and integrated manner.”
It further added, “Additional technical evaluations and specialist examinations, wherever considered necessary, will continue to be undertaken to ensure that all findings and conclusions are supported by verified evidence and sound scientific analysis.”
The bureau said it remains committed to a thorough, independent, and evidence-based investigation.
The AAIB stated, “The Final Report will be released upon completion of all investigative activities and the requisite international review and consultation processes prescribed under ICAO Annex 13.”
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