Cockpit Voice Recorder Recovery Aids Investigation into Air India Plane Crash That Killed 270

Officials have confirmed the discovery of the Cockpit Voice Recorder from the Air India crash site, a significant step in determining the cause of the accident that claimed 270 lives, including 241 passengers. Previously, only the Flight Data Recorder had been found. This discovery was reported to P K Mishra, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Ahmedabad.

Mishra inspected the crash site and visited the civil hospital where injured individuals are receiving treatment. He chaired a high-level meeting at Circuit House with senior officials from both Central and state governments, as well as representatives from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and Airports Authority of India. The meeting focused on ongoing relief, rescue, and investigation efforts.

Investigation Efforts Intensify

The AAIB has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the crash. Simultaneously, the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board is conducting its own inquiry under international protocols due to the aircraft being American-made. Officials assured Mishra that both black boxes have been secured, which will aid investigators in identifying the crash's cause.

The Boeing 787-8AI 171 was en route to London when it crashed into a medical college campus in Meghaninagar shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Tragically, all but one of the 242 passengers and crew perished, along with 29 others on the ground, including five medical students.

On-Site Assessments and Support

Mishra reviewed the accident site near B.J. Medical College in Meghani Nagar. Senior state government officials and representatives from AAIB and Airports Authority of India briefed him on the incident's sequence and immediate response actions. During his visit to Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad, Mishra met with bereaved families and observed DNA sample matching processes.

He instructed authorities to provide comprehensive assistance to ensure a compassionate process for affected families. Mishra also interacted with injured victims, directing hospital staff to prioritise their treatment and recovery. "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," Mishra told reporters.

Commitment to Victims' Families

At Gandhinagar's Forensic Science Laboratory, Mishra reviewed DNA sampling efforts, emphasising swift yet scientifically accurate identification. He reiterated Prime Minister Modi's commitment to supporting victims' families and ensuring a coordinated response among all involved agencies.

Accompanying Mishra were PMO officials Tarun Kapoor, Advisor to the PM, and Mangesh Ghildiyal, Deputy Secretary at PMO. Their presence underscored the government's dedication to addressing this tragedy comprehensively.

With inputs from PTI