Air India flight 171 crash: Supreme Court says probe aims to find cause, ensure future safety, not to assign blame

The Hindu
The Hindu 3M India
The Supreme Court stated that the investigation into the Air India Flight 171 crash aims to determine the cause and improve safety, not to assign blame. This follows concerns raised by the pilot's father regarding media reports and pilot error rumors.
Air India flight 171 crash: Supreme Court says probe aims to find cause, ensure future safety, not to assign blame
Why it matters
On November 13, 2025, the Supreme Court of India clarified the purpose of the investigation into the Air India Flight 171 crash, which occurred on June 12, 2025, resulting in the deaths of 12 crew members and 229 passengers. The court emphasized that the investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is intended to determine the cause of the accident and to provide recommendations for future safety, rather than to assign blame. This clarification came in response to concerns raised by the father of one of the pilots, who sought an independent inquiry due to media speculation about pilot error. The Solicitor General assured the court that the government is following international conventions regarding air accident investigations. The case has been adjourned for further hearings, as the court considers the need for a more comprehensive inquiry.
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Law & Public Safety Court Rulings

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