The tragic Air India AI-171 crash on June 12 has left the nation reeling, with investigators working tirelessly to unravel the mysteries behind the disaster. As the investigation unfolds, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has slammed media reports on the probe, terming them ‘premature and speculative.’
Despite the challenges, investigators have made significant progress in uncovering the truth. The forward black box, discovered on June 16, has yielded valuable flight data covering 49 hours across six flights, including AI-171. The two-hour cockpit audio recording has also provided crucial insights into the events leading up to the crash.
Aircraft Wreckage Holds Vital Clues
As investigators focus on the wreckage of the aircraft’s tail section, they believe they may have found vital clues about the tragedy. The rear Enhanced Airborne Flight Recorder (EAFR), commonly known as the black box, was recovered from the rooftop of the BJ Medical College hostel mess building on June 13. Although it suffered extensive thermal damage, the NTSB is working to retrieve data from the device.
Electronics Warfare and Information Warfare: The Growing Threat
In a report highlighting the increasing challenges in electronic warfare and information warfare, AI emerges as a transformative tool for ensuring national sovereignty. The report notes that India ranks third globally in phishing attacks, after the US and Russia, with over 2.3 million cybersecurity incidents reported in 2024, resulting in a financial loss of₹1,200 crore due to cyberattacks.
Lessons Learned and Future Steps
As the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of the Air India crash, it is essential to learn from the tragedy and take steps to prevent such incidents in the future. By focusing on the wreckage clues and collaborating with international experts, the NTSB is working towards determining the cause of the crash. Meanwhile, the aviation industry must prioritize safety and invest in advanced technologies to mitigate the risks of electronic warfare and information warfare.
In conclusion, the Air India crash investigation is a solemn reminder of the importance of safety in aviation. As we move forward, it is crucial that we learn from the tragedy and work towards ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew members. By doing so, we can prevent such incidents from occurring in the future and maintain the trust of the public.
Originally published on https://www.livemint.com/news/air-india-express-flight-ix-110-to-phuket-in-thailand-diverted-to-hyderabad-after-technical-issue-11752914235703.html
