India has declined an offer from the United Nations’ International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to include one of its investigators as an observer in the ongoing probe into the Air India Flight AI-171 crash, which claimed over 260 lives in Ahmedabad on June 12. The decision comes amid scrutiny over the pace and transparency of the investigation into what has become the world’s deadliest aviation disaster in a decade.
According to senior government sources, ICAO had proposed deploying an investigator already present in India to assist in an observer capacity. However, Indian authorities opted not to grant the request, stating that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the probe in full compliance with global norms under Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation clarified on Thursday that the black box data – comprising the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) – was successfully recovered and downloaded by June 25. The process was conducted at the AAIB lab in Delhi in collaboration with the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), as required under international protocols, given the aircraft’s American origin.
This clarification follows concerns raised by aviation safety experts about delays in data analysis and limited public communication. While both black boxes were recovered within days of the crash – one on June 13 and the second on June 16 – critics noted the absence of detailed technical updates or regular press briefings. The ministry has so far held only one press conference, without taking media questions.
Under ICAO’s Annex 13 provisions, prompt decisions on black box analysis locations are essential, particularly when early data may help prevent future tragedies. India, however, maintains that its actions have been swift and protocol-compliant. Officials cited that the investigative timeline and participation of accredited international agencies demonstrate transparency and cooperation.
India’s rejection of ICAO’s offer is seen as a signal of confidence in its domestic capabilities and legal framework for civil aviation accident investigations. A preliminary report on the incident is expected within 30 days of the crash.
Flight AI-171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, was en route from Ahmedabad to London when it went down shortly after takeoff, leading to significant casualties and sparking a high-priority multinational probe.
