Families of British nationals who lost their lives in the Air India Flight-171 crash last year have approached the UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch for answers. The AAIB stated that it lacks the authority to conduct a technical review of the incident despite the involvement of UK citizens. The UK’s role in the inquiry is limited to that of an “Expert” under international aviation standards.
Nearly 10 families sought clarification from the AAIB, with Principal Inspector Geraint Herbert confirming the UK’s participation as an “Expert” in the investigation. The AAIB emphasized that as an Expert, they are entitled to visit the accident site, access approved factual information, and receive the final report but do not have the right to conduct the technical review requested by families.
The AAIB cautioned against drawing conclusions from preliminary reports, noting that these findings are subject to change pending further investigation. It highlighted the involvement of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Boeing in the technical investigation as representatives of the aircraft’s design and manufacture state. The AAIB mentioned that concerns raised by families may be addressed in the final report, although uncertainty remains regarding the timeline for its release.
The letter from the AAIB also mentioned the challenges in providing a specific publication date for the final report due to the thoroughness required in accident investigations. Social activist Kuldip Ishrani (Kaviraj), in contact with around 200 victim families, revealed that the AAIB issued similar responses to five families. Families of victims are escalating efforts to seek clarity, with some writing to Indian authorities requesting the release of black box data.
