Air India Flight AI-171 Crash: A Timeline of Tragedy

Air India Flight AI-171 tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on Thursday, impacting the residential quarters of BJ Medical College. The flight went down just 33 seconds post-departure, resulting in a massive fire and significant casualties. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash, focusing on factors like power loss, engine failure, and maintenance history.

A tragic incident unfolded on Thursday as Air India Flight AI-171 crashed just moments after taking off from Ahmedabad, heading towards London. The flight went down into the residential quarters of BJ Medical College, where medical staff are housed, resulting in a significant fire and loss of life. Eyewitness accounts and flight data reveal a harrowing timeline of the flight’s final moments, culminating in the crash roughly thirty-three seconds post-takeoff.

The timeline of the unfortunate event started at 1:30 PM, when Flight AI-171 pushed back from the gate at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. By 1:31 PM, the aircraft began taxiing towards the active runway, aligning on Runway 28 after getting clearance from Air Traffic Services at 1:34 PM. The final pre-flight checks were completed as the aircraft started its taxiing at 1:38:24 PM. Shortly after takeoff at 1:38:40 PM, the pilot issued a distress call, indicating a full emergency.

According to Flightradar24 data, just seconds after takeoff, the aircraft reached an altitude of 625 feet and picked up a speed of 174 knots. However, it began descending quickly. By 1:39:13 PM, eyewitnesses observed the jet at a low altitude, with its landing gear extended—a clear indication of an emergency situation. Then, it vanished from view before crashing into the residential area, leading to a massive fireball on impact. This incident has raised urgent questions about safety protocols.

The investigation into the crash will consider various factors, as aviation experts outline potential lines of inquiry. These include examining the aircraft’s black boxes, assessing crew performance, reviewing ground operations, and understanding maintenance history. Investigators are particularly focused on if the plane experienced a power loss and the reasons behind it. Other areas of concern involve whether there was dual engine failure, any potential contamination in the fuel, and if foreign objects (like birds) contributed to the crash.

Moreover, questions about the aircraft’s electrical systems and the configuration of the flaps and landing gear during its final moments are expected to come into play. The recent maintenance record is under scrutiny, alongside a review of fuel and weight parameters during takeoff. Only time will tell what conclusions investigators will ultimately reach about this tragic accident that has deeply affected many.

In summary, the crash of Air India Flight AI-171 has left a significant mark—raising numerous questions about aviation safety and aircraft operations during critical moments. The coming investigations will hopefully provide clarity to what went wrong during that fateful day.

In conclusion, the Air India Flight AI-171 tragedy highlights the critical importance of understanding aviation safety protocols and investigating operational failures. As experts delve into various inquiries surrounding the crash, the hope remains that this thorough examination will shed light on the underlying causes and promote safer air travel in the future.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com