Fri Jan 16 02:56:12 UTC 2026: ### Pilots’ Body Challenges AAIB’s Summons in Air India Crash Investigation

The Story:

The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has issued a legal notice to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) concerning the summoning of Captain Varun Anand, nephew of the late Sumeet Sabharwal, a pilot who perished in the June 12, 2025, Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. The Boeing 787-8 aircraft, operating as AI171 from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed into a medical hostel complex, resulting in the deaths of 260 people, including 241 on board. FIP argues that Captain Anand, a pilot of narrow-body aircraft and FIP member, has no direct connection to the crashed flight’s operation, maintenance, or crew, making his summoning arbitrary and without legal basis.

Key Points:

  • The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) served a legal notice to the AAIB on January 11, 2026, challenging the summoning of Captain Varun Anand.
  • Captain Anand is the nephew of Sumeet Sabharwal, one of the pilots killed in the June 12, 2025, Air India AI171 crash in Ahmedabad.
  • The Boeing 787-8 crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 260 people.
  • FIP asserts that Captain Anand is neither a factual, technical, nor expert witness to the accident.
  • The AAIB claims its actions are within the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules 2025, granting investigators the power to examine any relevant witness.

Key Takeaways:

  • The FIP is actively defending the rights and interests of its members, especially in the aftermath of aviation disasters.
  • The AAIB is under scrutiny regarding its investigation methods, facing accusations of potentially overreaching its authority.
  • Transparency and justification of investigative procedures are crucial to maintain public trust and ensure a fair accident investigation process.
  • This legal challenge highlights the tension between thoroughness in accident investigations and protecting individuals from undue harassment.

    Read More