Mumbai (National Times): In the wake of the tragic crash of Air India flight AI-171 in Ahmedabad, the Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has released an official statement expressing deep concern over the preliminary findings and the public discourse surrounding the incident.
The statement, signed by Capt. C.S. Randhawa, President of FIP, criticizes the exclusion of pilot representatives from the investigation process. The FIP also objects to the manner in which the preliminary report has been interpreted and publicized.
“The report, as released, lacks comprehensive data and appears to rely selectively on paraphrased cockpit voice recordings,” the statement reads. The FIP argues that this approach unfairly suggests pilot error and questions the professional competence of the flight crew without adequate evidence. It emphasizes that such a conclusion is “neither objective nor complete.”
The federation has urged its members and the general public to refrain from accepting or endorsing premature conclusions. “Assigning blame before a thorough, transparent, and data-driven investigation is both premature and irresponsible,” the FIP stated, warning that such speculation undermines the credibility of aviation professionals and causes unnecessary distress to the families of the victims.
The statement also calls on all stakeholders—including media, commentators, and authorities—to refrain from disseminating partial narratives based on assumptions. FIP stressed the importance of a fact-based and objective approach, highlighting that aviation safety must remain grounded in evidence and integrity.
In a show of solidarity, the FIP extended its support to the crew and their families, reiterating the call for a fair, transparent, and evidence-based investigation before drawing any conclusions.
The Federation’s strong response underscores the growing tension between investigative authorities and pilot bodies in the aftermath of aviation tragedies, with a shared goal of upholding safety, fairness, and professional dignity.
