A high-level panel has been established to thoroughly investigate the Ahmedabad plane crash, with the government confirming on Saturday that the probe is progressing smoothly. The incident involved an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft, which crashed shortly after take-off on Thursday, June 12, while operating a flight from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick. Out of 242 individuals on board, only one person survived, making it a profoundly tragic event.

Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu addressed the media in the national capital, stating that the black box of the ill-fated aircraft was recovered from the crash site on Friday evening, June 13. He emphasized that the decoding of the black box is crucial, as it will provide in-depth insight into the moments leading up to the crash. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is taking the accident with utmost seriousness, and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the investigation.

A multi-disciplinary panel, chaired by the home secretary, is scheduled to hold its first meeting on Monday and is expected to submit its comprehensive report within three months. Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha confirmed the smooth progress of the investigation. Before the press conference, a one-minute silence was observed to honor the victims of the crash.

Efforts are underway to identify the victims, with DNA testing being conducted to facilitate the handover of remains to their respective families. The Gujarat government is actively coordinating on the ground, providing all necessary support for these efforts. Minister Naidu expressed hope that this process would be completed as swiftly as possible.

In response to the incident, extended surveillance has been ordered for all Boeing 787 series planes in the Indian aircraft fleet. Minister Naidu stated that while India adheres to very strict aviation safety standards and robust protocols, this incident necessitated an order through the DGCA for enhanced inspections of the 33 remaining Boeing 787-8 aircraft in the Indian fleet (down from 34 before the crash). Eight of these planes have already undergone inspection. The government is committed to taking all necessary steps to further enhance aviation safety.

The newly formed high-level committee comprises three members from diverse backgrounds, chosen for their expertise to conduct a holistic investigation. They have been given three months to consult with various stakeholders and experts. Minister Naidu reiterated his deepest condolences to the families affected, describing the incident as a “very tragic, very horrific incident” and acknowledging the pain and anguish being experienced by the loved ones.