The aviation industry has shifted its focus to the possibility of pilot error following the fatal Air India crash on June 12. A preliminary report from Indian aviation authorities indicated that one of the pilots cut power to both engines by moving two switches that control the flow of fuel. The switches moved from the “run” to “cutoff” position seconds after takeoff, with just one second between the two movements.
Some conclusions can be drawn from that cursory information, according to former accident investigators and aviation safety consultants who spoke with The Seattle Times this week. However, why one of the pilots would have moved the switches is not among the questions it can answer and is the biggest focus for the rest of the investigation.
At this stage, the preliminary report points to pilot error, in part because the report lowers the likelihood of other scenarios. Mike Dunlop, an aviation expert, author and founder of supply management software company Net-Inspect, said that from a mechanical, software, electronic standpoint, he cannot think of any possible combination of events that could cause what happened when it happened. Other experts say it’s premature to rule out other causes, including manufacturing, electrical, or maintenance errors that may have led both engines to lose power or influenced the pilots’ behavior.
Speculation about intentional acts by one of the pilots has been met with criticism from unions and advocacy groups representing pilots in India, as well as India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau and the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board, which is helping with the investigation. The Air Line Pilots Association, a global union, does not comment on active investigations but said in a statement, “it’s vital that all factors are thoroughly and exhaustively evaluated. Engaging in speculation only serves to hamper and undermine the ongoing investigation.”
