Supreme Court orders an independent probe into the Air India Flight AI171 tragedy, addressing pilot blame controversy and ensuring a fair, transparent investigation into the June 12, 2025 crash.
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NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court of India is set to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) demanding a court-monitored and independent investigation into the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash on June 12, 2025, which claimed 260 lives. The case is listed before Justices Surya Kant and N.K. Singh.
Background of the Case
The petitioner, represented by senior advocate Prashant Bhushan, argued that more than 100 days have passed since the crash, yet only a preliminary report has been released. Concerns have been raised that this report has unfairly placed blame on the pilots without a thorough investigation.
Bhushan emphasized that passengers and airline safety remain at risk as long as the cause of the crash remains uncertain. He also highlighted a potential conflict of interest, noting that 3 of the 5-member investigative team are DGCA officials, even as the DGCA’s role in aviation oversight is itself under scrutiny.
The preliminary report, published by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) in July, included cockpit audio of Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and First Officer Clive Kundar, which led to speculation about pilot error. The audio reportedly records one pilot asking, “Why did you cut off?” and the other replying, “I didn’t.”
“The preliminary report has created a false narrative about pilot error. Media reports have suggested the crash was a mistake of the pilots, which is not accurate. The real reason appears to be an electrical failure that shut both engines.”
Prashant Bhushan
Bhushan argued that this single sentence created a misleading narrative in the media, suggesting deliberate pilot error. He stated,
“The pilots were very experienced. The story being circulated was that they deliberately shut off fuel supply to the engines. This is highly misleading and unfair.”
“A fair inquiry is important. But why insist on releasing so much information at this stage? Releasing FDR data now may not be advisable. Rather, the final report should come into the public domain once complete.”
Justice Surya Kant
“It has been over 100 days with no precautions issued for other aircraft, and no clarity on the cause. Our plea is only for an independent probe.”
Bhushan
Justice Kant acknowledged the concerns, noting the importance of a swift, expert-led inquiry to prevent misrepresentation and rumors. He also commented on the emotional toll, referencing statements from the pilot’s family following misleading media reports.
Justice Kant described the situation as “very unfortunate and irresponsible”, stressing the importance of confidentiality and protecting the families of the pilots from undue harassment or blame.
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Criticism of Preliminary Report:
The PIL, filed by Safety Matters Foundation, alleges that the preliminary report:
- Withholds critical information that could affect aviation safety
- Downplays systemic anomalies, such as fuel-switch defects and electrical faults
- Prematurely attributes the crash to pilot error, violating citizens’ rights to truthful information
Bhushan emphasized the need for an independent probe, pointing out that a government-appointed investigation led by DGCA members could compromise impartiality.
Court Proceedings and Observations
During the hearing:
Justice Surya Kant noted the importance of a fair inquiry but cautioned against releasing all findings prematurely.
“Suppose tomorrow, it is said that pilot ‘A’ is responsible. The family of the pilot is bound to suffer,”
he said.
The bench agreed that the investigation should be expert-led and conducted swiftly to prevent rumors or misrepresentation.
Details of the Crash
Air India Flight AI171, traveling from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed seconds after take-off on June 12, 2025. The crash claimed:
- 12 crew members and 229 passengers
- 19 additional lives on the ground after hitting a medical college hostel
- Only one passenger survived the crash
The tragedy has raised serious questions about aviation safety, regulatory oversight, and transparency in investigations.
Court Order
The Supreme Court issued notice to the respondents, including:
- The Centre
- DGCA
- Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB)
Directions are limited to:
- Securing a free, fair, and impartial inquiry
- Ensuring the investigation is conducted by an independent expert body
- Completing the process swiftly, to prevent misinformation and maintain public confidence in aviation safety
Case Title:
SAFETY MATTERS FOUNDATION V UNION OF INDIA AND ORS.
W.P.(C) No. 920/2025
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