Defence expert Praful Bakshi highlighted the importance of holding the Air Traffic Control (ATC) accountable in the early stages of plane crash investigations. Bakshi noted that the ATC’s official statements usually come later in the process and not initially. He made these remarks following the tragic incident involving an AN-32 transport aircraft that caught fire after landing at the Jorhat airbase in Assam, resulting in the loss of five Indian Air Force personnel.
Bakshi explained that various factors could lead to an aircraft crashing during landing, citing examples such as sudden power loss or tyre bursts. He mentioned the possibility of heavy landings, tyre bursts, or bird hits as potential causes for the AN-32 crash. Bakshi emphasized the importance of analyzing flight data and cockpit recordings to determine the exact circumstances of the incident.
Regarding the ATC’s role, Bakshi stressed the need to question them about the last communication with the aircraft. He pointed out that ATC statements are typically withheld initially as investigations unfold, following a common practice worldwide. Bakshi underscored the significance of utilizing flight data and cockpit voice recordings to gain insights into the crash.
