Following the tragic crash of an Air India Boeing 787 that led to the loss of over 270 lives, India is implementing immediate inspections of its Boeing 787 fleet, as revealed by the aviation minister on Saturday. The aviation regulator previously instructed Air India to carry out further maintenance checks on its 787-8 and 787-9 models outfitted with GEnx engines, focusing on specific take-off parameters, electronic engine controls, and fuel assessments.
Aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu confirmed that extended surveillance on the 34 Boeing 787s within the Indian fleet is now mandatory, with inspections already completed on eight aircraft. Although these planes have not been grounded, reports suggest the Indian government is contemplating that action. The government is actively exploring various theories related to the crash, including factors linked to engine thrust, flaps, and the malfunction of landing gear during take-off.
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 individuals en route to Gatwick Airport in the UK, lost altitude shortly after take-off, ultimately colliding with buildings and resulting in a catastrophic fire. Among the wreckage, 270 bodies have been recovered, leaving only one survivor from the flight."
The crash has exacerbated challenges for Air India, which has been working to restore its reputation since being acquired by the Tata Group in 2022. Tata's chairman expressed a desire to understand the events surrounding the tragedy, although details remain unclear. A government panel is currently investigating the crash, with a report expected in three months, and the minister emphasized a commitment to safety improvements.
Grieving family members have been anxiously waiting outside an Ahmedabad hospital for updates on their loved ones, while medical professionals are conducting identification checks, often using dental records due to the severe condition of the bodies. Rafiq Abdul Hafiz Memon, who lost multiple relatives, voiced his frustration regarding the lack of information and support from authorities as he seeks answers about his family's fate.
The process of identifying victims has posed significant challenges for healthcare workers, especially given that the crash's aftermath has left many feeling emotionally distressed by the loss of colleagues. Forensic dentist Jaishankar Pillai indicated that they have dental records for 135 victims to facilitate identification. A compassionate understanding is essential as both families and medical staff grapple with the tragedy and its implications.
1 Comments
Coccinella
It's good to see that the government is taking swift action to ensure safety after such a tragedy.