Popular YouTuber Gaurav Taneja, known as Flying Beast, has sharply criticized the preliminary report on the Air India flight AI 171 crash, calling it an “eyewash” and alleging the omission of crucial details.
Flying Beast Alleges “Eyewash” Report
Gaurav Taneja, a commercial pilot by profession, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his disappointment with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau’s (AAIB) initial findings on the June 12 Air India crash.
He labeled the report “very poor” and accused the bureau of deliberately withholding critical information from the public, suggesting it doesn’t present the complete picture of what happened.
Key Information Missing, Basic Errors Noted
Taneja pointed out that while the report details the physical locations and distances of aircraft parts, it notably lacks essential timestamps. He questioned why details like pilot conversation timings, the exact moment the RAT (Ram Air Turbine) began supplying power, and the first instance of Fuel Control Switch (FCS) transition were excluded.
He further challenged the absence of pilot conversations for the 10 seconds when FCS were toggled between CUTOFF and RUN. Adding to his criticism, Taneja claimed the report contained “basic errors,” specifically citing an incorrect full form for FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control).
Wider Concerns Among Aviation Experts
Flying Beast isn’t alone in his skepticism. Other aviation experts have also highlighted significant omissions in the preliminary report. Many noted the lack of any recommendations for operators of the Boeing 787-8, the aircraft involved in the incident.
This absence leaves many questions unanswered regarding potential improvements or safety measures. The report, according to news agency PTI, largely pointed towards a catastrophic pilot error as a contributing factor in the Dreamliner’s crash.
Criticism of Media’s Blame Game
Beyond the official report, Gaurav Taneja also directed criticism at media coverage, specifically a BBC report. He accused it of unfairly placing blame on the deceased pilots, who cannot defend themselves.
Taneja argued that such reporting effectively gives Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, “a clean chit” without fully addressing the questions surrounding the tragic accident. The crash resulted in 241 fatalities among the 242 people on board, along with 19 people on the ground.
- Gaurav Taneja claims the Air India crash report is an “eyewash.”
- He alleges crucial timestamps and pilot conversations are missing from the report.
- Other experts also noted the report’s lack of recommendations for Boeing 787-8 operators.
- Taneja criticized media outlets for seemingly blaming deceased pilots and clearing Boeing prematurely.
The ongoing debate highlights the complexities and public demand for transparency in air accident investigations, especially in high-profile cases.
