More than a year after the deadly Air India AI-171 crash that claimed 260 lives, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has said the investigation is now in its final phase and the final report could be submitted soon. Speaking on Monday, the minister said investigators are carefully following international rules and do not want to rush the process.

Air India AI-171 crash probe in final stage: Aviation Minister

Naidu said everyone is waiting for answers, but added that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is committed to carrying out a thorough investigation. “We are all waiting… AAIB doesn’t want to unnecessarily speed up any process. They want to follow the protocol very strictly. This is an international protocol, so they can’t miss any step…” he said.

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The minister added that investigators are examining every aspect of the accident in detail before reaching their conclusions. “They have to focus on the investigation very thoroughly… So they are taking the due time. But because it is in the last leg, that is why they issued the statement. They might complete the investigation and present us with the final report very soon,” he said.

AAIB says significant progress has been made

On Friday, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau released an update on the progress of the probe. The agency said investigators have made notable headway in examining aircraft systems, flight recorder data, engine-related components and several other pieces of evidence linked to the crash.

According to the bureau, the investigation team has spent the past year carrying out an extensive review of all technical, operational, organisational and human factors that may have played a role in the accident.

“This effort has been supported by accredited representatives, technical advisers and subject matter experts from relevant organisations,” the AAIB said.

Analysis still underway

Investigators said all the evidence collected so far is now being studied together to get a complete picture of what happened. “The evidence gathered and the results of various examinations, are currently being analysed in a comprehensive and integrated manner,” the statement said.

The bureau also added that more technical reviews and specialist examinations could still be carried out if needed. “Additional technical evaluations and specialist examinations, wherever considered necessary, will continue to be undertaken to ensure that all findings and conclusions are supported by verified evidence and sound scientific analysis,” it added.

Final report will follow international rules

AAIB said it remains committed to conducting an independent, objective and evidence-based investigation.

The agency explained that the final report can only be released after all investigative work is completed and after the required international review and consultation process under ICAO Annex 13 is finished.

“The Final Report will be released upon completion of all investigative activities and the requisite international review and consultation processes prescribed under ICAO Annex 13,” the bureau said.

In its statement, the AAIB once again expressed sympathy for those who lost loved ones in the tragedy. “We express our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of all those who lost their lives in the accident,” the bureau said.

“We also acknowledge the enduring pain and loss suffered by all those affected.”