Bhathiya Barukanda
New Delhi: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) on Thursday strongly criticised sections of the global media for what it described as “selective” and “unverified” reporting on the recent Air India crash that killed 260 people, urging the public and media to refrain from spreading premature or speculative narratives. In a strongly worded statement issued, AAIB Director General G V G Yugandhar called such actions “irresponsible” and potentially damaging to the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
“It has come to our attention that certain sections of the international media are repeatedly attempting to draw conclusions through selective and unverified reporting. Such actions are irresponsible, especially while the investigation remains ongoing,” he said.
He further appealed to both the public and media to refrain from spreading unverified or premature narratives. “We urge everyone to allow the investigative process to unfold without interference. Jumping to conclusions at this stage risks undermining its integrity,” Yugandhar said.
Too early to draw conclusions, says AAIB
Responding to speculative reports suggesting pilot error led to the crash, the AAIB said the preliminary report should be seen only as an account of what happened, not why it happened. The final investigation report, it said, will establish root causes and safety recommendations.
“This is not the time to create public anxiety or angst about the safety of the Indian aviation industry, especially on the basis of unfounded facts,” the agency said, adding that the investigation is being carried out with full rigour and in accordance with AAIB rules and international protocols.
One of the most devastating accidents in Indian aviation
The London-bound Boeing 787-8 aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport, killing all 242 passengers and crew onboard. The AAIB called it one of the most devastating aviation accidents in recent memory and stressed the importance of respecting the grief of victims’ families.
The bureau noted its track record, having investigated 92 accidents and 111 serious incidents since its formation in 2012. It is currently probing multiple other incidents alongside the Air India crash. The agency reiterated its appeal to all stakeholders to await the Final Investigation Report and said it would issue updates of public or technical importance when appropriate.
source: indiatvnews.com
