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Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Speaking to CNN-News18, Captain Steve, an international aviation expert, pointed to the possibility of a bird strike.
Identification of the 241 people killed in Air India crash in Ahmedabad is currently in process. (AP Photo)
As authorities probe the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171, which claimed over 200 lives shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, aviation experts reflected on the probable causes that may have caused the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to go down. The aircraft was headed to London Gatwick and crashed into a doctors’ hostel, killing passengers and several people on the ground.
Bird Strike Possible, But Unlikely Alone
Speaking to CNN-News18, Captain Steve, an international aviation expert, pointed to the possibility of a bird strike. However, he stressed that it would likely require “a large number of birds” to cripple such a modern aircraft. “Bird hit may be a possibility, but then it has to be lots of birds,” he said.
Flap Retraction Or Pilot Error?
Captain Steve raised concerns about flap mismanagement. If the flaps were retracted prematurely during takeoff, the plane could have lost lift, he said, adding, “Another plausible theory is that the co-pilot could have raised the flap too early.”
That loss of lift at low altitude could explain the aircraft’s inability to gain height, he said.
Loss Of Power In Both Engines?
Aviation expert Ajay Ramakrishnan told news agency ANI that commercial aircraft like the 787 are designed to fly even if one engine fails. He said, “This plane should have been able to continue the flight even if one of its engines had failed. If that didn’t happen, it points to possible power loss in both engines, though we need to wait for the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) to confirm anything.” He also emphasised that fuel contamination is unlikely and said analysis of black box data will be crucial for identifying the cause.
Aviation analyst Devesh Agarwal underlined the significance of the incident, especially as it involves the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, one of the most widely trusted aircraft models. He told ANI, “This 787 Dreamliner is Boeing’s most modern plane. All its safety systems are intact, and it uses reliable engines trusted by airlines and regulators across the world.”
He explained, “Accidents never happen due to a single point of reason. There are always a series of failures or factors that align. That’s why it is important to investigate this matter deeply. The whole world has its eyes on this accident.”
What Next?
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has initiated a formal inquiry into the crash, in line with ICAO protocols. The government has also constituted a high-level committee of experts to examine the incident and recommend future safety enhancements.
When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, “What is the purpose of journalism in society?”
When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, “What is the purpose of journalism in society?”
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