New Delhi: As India reels from the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash in Ahmedabad, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has laid out a roadmap for sweeping aviation reforms, vowing to overhaul systems, protocols, and crisis preparedness.
Speaking at a press briefing in New Delhi, Naidu announced the constitution of a High-Level Committee, chaired by the Union Home Secretary, to conduct a multi-agency, independent investigation into the crash.
Multi-Agency Inquiry with a 3-Month Deadline
The committee includes representatives from:
- Ministry of Civil Aviation
- Ministry of Home Affairs
- Government of Gujarat
- DGCA, BCAS, Indian Air Force, and Intelligence Bureau
- State Disaster Response Authority
- Forensic and technical experts
The body will examine the crash from technical, operational, regulatory, and emergency response perspectives. It has been tasked with identifying systemic weaknesses, proposing long-term reforms, and submitting a consolidated report within 90 days.
“This is not about finding a scapegoat. This is about preventing the next tragedy,” the minister asserted.
Urgent Inspections of Boeing 787 Fleet
Simultaneously, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered immediate inspections of all Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft in India fitted with Genx engines—the same model used in AI171.
Of the 33 Dreamliners operated in India, eight have already undergone checks. The rest are being examined on a priority basis, with special focus on airworthiness certifications and maintenance documentation.
Enhanced Surveillance and Reforms
Other reforms under consideration include:
- Stricter certification systems
- Upgraded emergency response protocols
- Revised crew training procedures
- Improved Air Traffic Management Systems
Minister Naidu reaffirmed India’s strong record in aviation safety, citing high ICAO ratings, but warned against complacency: “Even one life lost is one too many. Our goal is zero fatality.”
Appeal for Responsible Journalism
As public anxiety surges, the Ministry has urged media outlets to avoid speculative reporting. “Verified facts and transparency will remain our guiding principles. Please help us protect the dignity of grieving families,” said the Minister.
The High-Level Committee will begin its deliberations on Monday, June 16.
With the nation still in shock, the Centre’s message is clear: every possible lesson will be learned, and every life lost will be honoured with lasting reform.
