Air India Crash: Aviation Minister Slams Western Media Over Premature Reports

India's Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has lashed out at Western media outlets for what he called premature and "vested" reporting on the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad. The accident, which occurred on June 12 just seconds after takeoff, claimed 260 lives and is among the deadliest aviation disasters in Indian history.

Speaking in Ghaziabad after inaugurating new IndiGo flights from Hindon Airport, the minister emphasized that drawing conclusions before the official investigation is complete is "not a good exercise."

'Let the AAIB Do Its Job'

Naidu stood firmly behind the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which is currently handling the probe. "I believe in AAIB. They've done a remarkable job by decoding the black box within India itself," he said. "People, especially certain Western media houses, must stop speculating. The final report is yet to come."

His remarks come in response to a report in The Wall Street Journal, which cited a U.S. official claiming the Air India captain had allegedly shut off the fuel control switches mid-air, leading to the catastrophic failure. The report has stirred debate and outrage, particularly for its strong focus on pilot error before official findings are published.

AAIB Pushes Back Against Media Reports

The AAIB has firmly rejected such claims, calling them premature and irresponsible. Director General GVG Yugandhar stated that media houses should refrain from sensationalism while the investigation is still ongoing.

"It's been noticed that parts of the international press are publishing selective, unverified conclusions," he said via PTI. "Such narratives can mislead and damage public trust. The final findings will be made public soon-until then, speculation must stop."

Tragedy in the Skies

The aircraft, a Boeing 787-8 operated by Air India, was flying from Ahmedabad to London's Gatwick Airport. It crashed just seconds after takeoff, resulting in the loss of all 260 passengers and crew members. The horrific accident sent shockwaves through India and the global aviation community.

As investigations continue, Indian authorities are urging patience-and caution against jumping to conclusions based on incomplete information.