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What happened
On November 13, 2025, the Supreme Court of India clarified the purpose of the investigation into the Air India Flight 171 crash, which occurred on June 12, 2025, resulting in the deaths of 12 crew members and 229 passengers. The court emphasized that the investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is intended to determine the cause of the accident and to provide recommendations for future safety, rather than to assign blame. This clarification came in response to concerns raised by the father of one of the pilots, who sought an independent inquiry due to media speculation about pilot error. The Solicitor General assured the court that the government is following international conventions regarding air accident investigations. The case has been adjourned for further hearings, as the court considers the need for a more comprehensive inquiry.
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Key insights
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1
Focus on Safety
The investigation aims to enhance aviation safety standards.
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2
Pilot's Father's Concerns
The pilot's father raised issues about media reports and pilot error speculation.
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3
International Standards
The government is committed to adhering to international aviation investigation standards.
Takeaways
The Supreme Court's clarification underscores the importance of understanding the causes of aviation accidents to prevent future tragedies, while also addressing public concerns regarding accountability and media narratives.