"We categorically reject this presumption and insist on a fair, fact-based inquiry,” the association said.

New Delhi: The Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPAI) has strongly criticized the preliminary report released by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) on the tragic Air India Flight 171 crash that occurred in Ahmedabad on June 12. In a strongly worded statement issued Friday, the association accused the AAIB of steering the investigation toward “pilot error” without due process or proper evidence review.

“The tone and direction of the investigation suggest a bias toward pilot error. We categorically reject this presumption and insist on a fair, fact-based inquiry,” the association said.

The report, which was leaked to the media earlier this week, has not been officially signed or attributed to any responsible official—raising questions about its legitimacy. ALPAI flagged this as a serious breach of protocol, calling it a “concerning lack of transparency” and accusing authorities of undermining the credibility of the investigation.

One of the core demands made by ALPAI is the inclusion of experienced line pilots in the investigative team—something the association says has been ignored so far.

“Qualified, experienced personnel, especially active line pilots, must be involved in the investigation to ensure an accurate and informed assessment,” the statement said.

Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, crashed on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, killing 240 of the 241 passengers onboard and 19 civilians on the ground. The lone survivor is currently undergoing treatment.

The association further noted that many critical aspects—including cockpit communication, flight data anomalies, and maintenance records—require a multidisciplinary approach that includes pilot input.

“Investigations of this magnitude cannot be shrouded in secrecy. We demand a transparent, collaborative process that considers all technical, mechanical, and human factors before assigning blame,” the statement added.

ALPAI has urged the Ministry of Civil Aviation to intervene and ensure the probe is conducted in a manner consistent with international best practices. As the next phase of the investigation begins, pressure is mounting for a process that prioritizes truth and accountability over scapegoating.

Meanwhile, families of the victims and aviation safety watchdogs are closely watching how the inquiry unfolds, with growing calls for systemic reforms in India’s aviation safety and investigation protocols.