Investigators are piecing together crucial details in the Air India Express crash that occurred at Kozhikode Airport in Kerala on August 7, 2020, as they seek to determine the precise sequence of events that led to the tragic incident that claimed the lives of 21 people, including both pilots.
The investigation into the Air India Express Flight 1344 crash is focused on a variety of factors, including weather conditions, the condition of the runway, pilot experience, and adherence to standard operating procedures. Preliminary reports suggest that the aircraft, a Boeing 737-800, overshot the runway during a landing attempt in heavy rain and plummeted into a valley, breaking into two pieces.
Unraveling the Sequence of Events
The investigation is meticulously reconstructing the final moments of the flight to understand why the aircraft failed to stop within the designated runway length. The Aviation Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), the agency responsible for probing air accidents in India, is examining the aircraft’s flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR) to gather critical insights into the pilots’ actions and the aircraft’s performance.
“The FDR and CVR data are crucial in understanding the sequence of events leading up to the crash,” stated a senior AAIB official involved in the investigation.
Investigators are analyzing weather reports from the day of the accident to determine the extent to which heavy rainfall and poor visibility might have contributed to the crash. The meteorological data is being cross-referenced with the pilots’ communication with air traffic control (ATC) to establish a clear picture of the prevailing conditions.
Runway Condition Under Scrutiny
The condition of the runway at Kozhikode Airport is also under intense scrutiny. The airport, situated on a hilltop, has a tabletop runway, which presents unique challenges for landing, especially in adverse weather conditions. The runway’s length and surface friction are key factors being assessed.
“The runway’s length and its condition, particularly during heavy rainfall, are critical factors that are being examined,” explained an aviation safety expert.
Investigators are evaluating whether the runway’s effective length was sufficient for the aircraft to land safely, considering the wet conditions. They are also examining the runway’s grooving, which is designed to channel water away and improve traction. The effectiveness of the grooving in mitigating the risk of hydroplaning is a key area of focus.
Pilot Experience and Decision-Making
The experience and decision-making of the pilots are central to the investigation. The captain of the flight was an experienced pilot with thousands of hours of flying experience, including extensive experience landing at Kozhikode Airport. However, investigators are analyzing his decisions in the moments leading up to the crash, including his decision to proceed with the landing despite the challenging weather conditions.
“The pilots’ experience and their decision-making process are being thoroughly examined to determine whether they adhered to standard operating procedures,” stated an AAIB spokesperson.
The investigation is also reviewing the co-pilot’s role in monitoring the flight parameters and providing feedback to the captain. The communication between the pilots in the cockpit is being analyzed to understand their assessment of the situation and their coordination in executing the landing.
Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures
The investigation is assessing whether the pilots and air traffic controllers adhered to standard operating procedures (SOPs). This includes examining whether the pilots followed the correct approach procedures, whether they made the appropriate calls regarding the weather conditions, and whether the air traffic controllers provided accurate and timely information.
“Adherence to SOPs is a critical aspect of aviation safety, and we are examining whether all parties involved followed the established procedures,” said a senior investigator.
Investigators are also reviewing the airline’s training programs and safety protocols to determine whether they adequately prepared the pilots for landing in challenging conditions. The airline’s risk assessment procedures for operating at airports with tabletop runways are also being evaluated.
Previous Incidents and Safety Recommendations
The investigation is also taking into account previous incidents and safety recommendations related to Kozhikode Airport. There have been concerns raised in the past about the safety of tabletop runways, particularly in the context of adverse weather conditions.
“We are reviewing previous incidents and safety recommendations to identify any systemic issues that may have contributed to the crash,” explained a member of the investigation team.
The investigation will consider whether previous safety recommendations were adequately implemented and whether any additional safety measures are necessary to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Technological Factors
The role of technology and automation in the cockpit is also being examined. The Boeing 737-800 is equipped with advanced flight control systems and automation features, but investigators are evaluating whether the pilots fully understood and effectively utilized these systems.
“The interaction between the pilots and the aircraft’s automation is a key area of investigation,” said an aviation technology expert.
Investigators are analyzing the aircraft’s autopilot settings, flight management system inputs, and other relevant data to determine the extent to which automation played a role in the accident.
The Human Factor
The investigation is also considering the human factor, including the pilots’ fatigue levels, stress levels, and overall health. Fatigue can impair a pilot’s judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk of errors.
“We are examining the pilots’ duty schedules and rest periods to determine whether fatigue may have been a factor,” stated an investigator.
Investigators are also reviewing the pilots’ medical records and any other relevant information that could shed light on their physical and mental state at the time of the accident.
Family Perspectives and Support
The families of the victims are being kept informed of the progress of the investigation. The airline and the government are providing support to the families, including financial assistance and counseling services.
“We are committed to providing the families with the information and support they need during this difficult time,” said a representative of Air India Express.
The investigation team is also taking into account the perspectives of the families and addressing their concerns.
Regulatory Oversight
The role of the aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), is also being examined. The investigation will assess whether the DGCA adequately oversaw the airline’s operations and whether it enforced safety regulations effectively.
“The DGCA’s oversight of the airline is a critical aspect of our investigation,” said a senior official involved in the probe.
Investigators are reviewing the DGCA’s audit reports, safety inspections, and other relevant documents to determine whether there were any shortcomings in its regulatory oversight.
Preventing Future Accidents
The ultimate goal of the investigation is to prevent similar accidents from happening in the future. The investigation team will identify the root causes of the crash and make recommendations to improve aviation safety.
“Our priority is to learn from this tragedy and take steps to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future,” stated the head of the AAIB.
The investigation’s findings will be shared with the aviation industry, regulators, and other stakeholders to promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
Focus on Specific Areas:
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Tailwind: Investigators will be determining if a tailwind was present during the landing and to what extent it affected the aircraft’s ability to stop within the runway’s confines. Tailwind conditions increase the landing distance required, making it a critical factor.
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“Black Box” Analysis: The FDR and CVR, commonly known as “black boxes,” are undergoing thorough analysis. The FDR contains data on airspeed, altitude, engine performance, and control surface movements, while the CVR captures conversations between the pilots and any sounds in the cockpit. These recordings are synchronized to provide a comprehensive understanding of the flight’s final moments.
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SOP Compliance: The AAIB is meticulously reviewing Air India Express’s standard operating procedures (SOPs) for landings in adverse weather conditions. Investigators are determining if the crew adhered to these SOPs and if the SOPs themselves were adequate for the prevailing conditions.
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Visual Illusions: Tabletop runways can create visual illusions for pilots, especially during poor visibility. The investigation will examine whether the pilots experienced any such illusions and how these might have affected their perception of altitude and distance.
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Braking Action: Analysis of the aircraft’s braking system is underway to determine if the brakes functioned correctly and if the pilots applied them effectively. The condition of the tires and the anti-skid system are also being assessed.
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ATC Communication: Communication between the pilots and Air Traffic Control (ATC) is being analyzed to understand the information exchanged regarding weather conditions, runway availability, and any potential hazards. The timing and clarity of these communications are vital.
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Go-Around Decision: A critical aspect of the investigation is understanding why the pilots did not execute a “go-around” – an aborted landing – when they encountered difficulties. Factors that might have influenced this decision, such as pressure to land, fuel considerations, or misjudgment of the situation, are being investigated.
More Background Details:
The Air India Express Flight 1344 was a repatriation flight operated as part of the Vande Bharat Mission, which aimed to bring back Indian citizens stranded abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The flight originated from Dubai and was carrying 190 passengers and crew members. The crash occurred on the second landing attempt after the pilots had initially aborted the first attempt due to poor visibility. The incident highlighted the challenges of operating at airports with tabletop runways, particularly during monsoon season. Several investigations and audits in the past had raised concerns about the safety of these airports.
Long-Term Implications:
The outcome of the Air India Express crash investigation is expected to have significant implications for aviation safety in India and globally. The findings could lead to changes in operating procedures, pilot training, runway design, and regulatory oversight. The investigation’s recommendations will likely be closely scrutinized by airlines, airports, and aviation authorities worldwide.
Focus on Kerala’s unique situation:
Kerala’s unique topography presents several challenges for aviation safety. The state’s mountainous terrain and heavy rainfall create difficult operating conditions, particularly during the monsoon season. Kozhikode Airport, with its tabletop runway, is one of the most challenging airports in the region. The investigation into the Air India Express crash is expected to pay close attention to the specific risks associated with operating in Kerala’s environment.
Review of International Standards:
The investigation may also prompt a review of international aviation standards related to tabletop runways and landing procedures in adverse weather conditions. International organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) may consider updating their guidelines based on the investigation’s findings.
Impact on Air India Express:
The crash has had a significant impact on Air India Express, the low-cost subsidiary of Air India. The airline has faced increased scrutiny from regulators and the public. The investigation’s findings could lead to changes in the airline’s safety management system, pilot training programs, and operational procedures.
Psychological Impact:
The crash has had a profound psychological impact on the aviation community, particularly pilots and air traffic controllers. The investigation may address the issue of psychological support for aviation professionals who have experienced traumatic events.
Emphasis on Training and Simulation:
The investigation is likely to emphasize the importance of realistic training and simulation for pilots, particularly for landing in challenging conditions. Pilots need to be prepared to handle a wide range of scenarios, including runway excursions, wind shear, and poor visibility. Advanced simulation technologies can help pilots develop the skills and decision-making abilities necessary to cope with these situations.
Community Response:
The local community in Kozhikode played a crucial role in the rescue efforts following the crash. Local residents rushed to the scene to help the injured passengers and crew members. The investigation may acknowledge the community’s response and highlight the importance of community involvement in emergency preparedness.
Data Security:
The security of the data from the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder is of utmost importance. Investigators must ensure that the data is protected from tampering and that it is analyzed using secure and reliable methods.
Legal Implications:
The crash may have legal implications for the airline, the airport operator, and other parties involved. Lawsuits may be filed on behalf of the victims and their families. The investigation’s findings could be used in legal proceedings to determine liability.
Future of Kozhikode Airport:
The future of Kozhikode Airport is uncertain following the crash. Some have called for the airport to be closed, while others have argued that it is essential for the region’s connectivity. The investigation’s findings will likely play a significant role in determining the airport’s future.
Focus on Crosswind Landings:
Crosswind landings, where the wind blows perpendicular to the runway, are particularly challenging. The investigation will likely examine the pilots’ technique for handling the crosswind and whether they used the appropriate control inputs to maintain the aircraft’s alignment with the runway.
Importance of Glidepath Management:
Maintaining the correct glidepath, the angle of descent during landing, is crucial for a safe landing. The investigation will analyze the aircraft’s glidepath during the approach and landing to determine if it was within acceptable limits.
Role of Autoland Systems:
The Boeing 737-800 is equipped with autoland systems, which can automatically land the aircraft in certain conditions. The investigation will examine why the pilots did not use the autoland system and whether it would have been appropriate in the prevailing conditions.
Evaluation of the Airline’s Safety Culture:
The investigation will likely evaluate the airline’s overall safety culture. A strong safety culture is characterized by open communication, a willingness to report errors, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Coordination with International Agencies:
The AAIB may coordinate with international aviation agencies, such as the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in the United States, to share expertise and best practices.
The Importance of Crew Resource Management (CRM):
CRM focuses on effective communication, teamwork, and decision-making in the cockpit. Investigators will be assessing how effectively the pilots utilized CRM principles during the approach and landing.
Extended Runway Centerline Lighting:
The investigation might consider the need for extended runway centerline lighting to aid pilots in maintaining alignment with the runway during low-visibility conditions.
Runway End Safety Area (RESA) Considerations:
The length and condition of the Runway End Safety Area (RESA), which is designed to provide a buffer zone in case of an overrun, will be a key consideration in the investigation.
Analysis of Wind Shear:
Wind shear, a sudden change in wind speed or direction, can be extremely dangerous during landing. The investigation will examine whether wind shear was a factor in the accident.
Data Recovery Efforts:
Efforts to recover all available data from the FDR and CVR are crucial for a comprehensive investigation. Specialists may be brought in to assist with data retrieval and analysis.
Evaluation of Emergency Response:
The effectiveness of the emergency response following the crash will be evaluated, including the speed of response, the coordination of different agencies, and the availability of medical resources.
Review of Approach Charts:
The investigation will review the approach charts for Kozhikode Airport to ensure that they are accurate and up-to-date.
Assessment of Crew Training for Rejected Landings:
The investigation might assess the crew’s training and proficiency in performing rejected landings, also known as go-arounds, from low altitudes.
Evaluation of Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS):
The investigation will assess whether the aircraft’s Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS) functioned correctly and whether the pilots responded appropriately to any warnings.
Analysis of Flight Path Angle:
The flight path angle, the angle at which the aircraft descends towards the runway, is a critical parameter during landing. The investigation will analyze the flight path angle during the approach to determine if it was within acceptable limits.
Detailed Mapping of the Crash Site:
A detailed mapping of the crash site will be conducted to reconstruct the sequence of events and identify any contributing factors.
Review of Previous Safety Audits of the Airport:
The investigation will review previous safety audits of Kozhikode Airport to identify any recurring issues or unresolved safety concerns.
Consideration of Pilot Workload:
The investigation will consider the pilots’ workload during the approach and landing, taking into account factors such as fatigue, stress, and the complexity of the situation.
Assessment of the Effectiveness of the Runway Grooving:
The effectiveness of the runway grooving, which is designed to channel water away and improve traction, will be assessed.
Evaluation of the Airline’s Safety Reporting System:
The investigation will evaluate the airline’s safety reporting system to determine if it is effective in identifying and addressing potential safety hazards.
Examination of the Aircraft’s Maintenance Records:
The aircraft’s maintenance records will be examined to identify any potential maintenance-related issues that may have contributed to the crash.
Coordination with the Aircraft Manufacturer:
The AAIB may coordinate with Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, to obtain technical expertise and assistance with the investigation.
Review of Air Traffic Control Procedures:
The investigation will review air traffic control procedures to ensure that they are safe and effective.
Assessment of the Effectiveness of the Airport’s Emergency Response Plan:
The effectiveness of the airport’s emergency response plan will be assessed.
Evaluation of the Airline’s Fuel Management Policies:
The investigation will evaluate the airline’s fuel management policies to ensure that the aircraft was carrying an adequate amount of fuel for the flight.
Examination of the Pilots’ Psychological State:
The investigation may include an examination of the pilots’ psychological state at the time of the accident.
Review of the Airline’s Training Curriculum:
The investigation will review the airline’s training curriculum to ensure that it adequately prepares pilots for landing in challenging conditions.
Assessment of the Effectiveness of the Airport’s Bird Control Program:
The effectiveness of the airport’s bird control program will be assessed.
Evaluation of the Airline’s Weight and Balance Procedures:
The investigation will evaluate the airline’s weight and balance procedures to ensure that the aircraft was properly loaded.
Examination of the Aircraft’s Flap Settings:
The investigation will examine the aircraft’s flap settings to determine if they were appropriate for the landing conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. What caused the Air India Express Flight 1344 crash at Kozhikode Airport?
The precise cause is still under investigation by the AAIB, but preliminary reports suggest a combination of factors, including heavy rainfall, poor visibility, a tabletop runway, and potentially pilot error. The investigation is focusing on analyzing the FDR and CVR data, weather conditions, runway condition, pilot experience, and adherence to standard operating procedures to determine the sequence of events that led to the crash.
2. What is a tabletop runway, and why is it considered more challenging?
A tabletop runway is located on a plateau or hilltop, with steep drop-offs at one or both ends. This configuration can create visual illusions for pilots, especially during poor visibility, making it difficult to judge altitude and distance accurately. It also reduces the margin for error during landing, as there is limited space to recover from an overrun.
3. What is the AAIB, and what is its role in the investigation?
The Aviation Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is the agency responsible for investigating air accidents and incidents in India. Its role is to determine the cause of the accident, identify safety deficiencies, and make recommendations to prevent similar accidents from happening in the future. The AAIB is an independent body and its investigations are conducted in a neutral and objective manner.
4. What are the “black boxes” (FDR and CVR), and why are they so important to the investigation?
The “black boxes” are the flight data recorder (FDR) and the cockpit voice recorder (CVR). The FDR records various flight parameters, such as airspeed, altitude, engine performance, and control surface movements. The CVR records conversations between the pilots and any sounds in the cockpit. These recordings are synchronized and provide a comprehensive understanding of the flight’s final moments, helping investigators to reconstruct the sequence of events that led to the crash.
5. What steps are being taken to prevent similar accidents from happening in the future?
The AAIB’s investigation will identify the root causes of the crash and make recommendations to improve aviation safety. These recommendations may include changes to operating procedures, pilot training, runway design, regulatory oversight, and safety management systems. The investigation’s findings will be shared with the aviation industry, regulators, and other stakeholders to promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
