Air India Crash: Second Black Box Recovered, Cockpit Voice Recorder to Aid Investigators

The second black box from the Air India flight AI171 that tragically crashed in Ahmedabad on June 12 has been recovered, according to officials leading the ongoing investigation. The black box contains the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), a crucial component that captures pilot conversations and cockpit sounds, offering key insights into what led to the deadly disaster.

This follows the earlier recovery of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR). Together, the two black boxes are expected to play a pivotal role in identifying the exact cause of the crash, which claimed the lives of approximately 270 people, including 241 of the 242 people onboard.

Top-Level Briefing to PM's Office

Senior officials confirmed the recovery of both flight recorders to P K Mishra, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to the crash site in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Mishra also visited the civil hospital where several injured passengers are receiving treatment.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) released a joint statement, saying:

"Chairing a high-level review meeting at Circuit House, Dr Mishra discussed ongoing relief, rescue, and investigation efforts with senior officials from the Central and State Governments, AAIB, and AAI."

"Officials confirmed to Dr Mishra that the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) have been located and secured."

Global Investigation Underway

Due to the aircraft being American-made, the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting a parallel investigation in coordination with Indian authorities, following international aviation protocols. The AAIB has launched a detailed and technical inquiry to establish accountability and prevent similar incidents.

Speaking after inspecting the crash site, Dr P K Mishra expressed deep sorrow,"I am very pained by the enormity of the tragedy. Everybody is sad. It is our duty to share grief and express our feelings for the victims."

He assured that the Prime Minister is committed to extending all necessary support to the victims' families and emphasized the need for a coordinated response across all agencies involved in the recovery, support, and investigation process.