AI-171 Crash Sparks Urgency in Crisis Response Says Mirchandani
                     Clear Crisis 
Communications and 
Diligent Protocols are 
needed to Restore 
Trust Post the AI-171 
Crash, Says Jaideep 
Mirchandani
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The group chairman of Sky One adds that the 
devastating incident underscores the need for 
continuous safety checks and follow-up actions
While investigating the “Miracle of the Hudson” plane 
crash in 2009, it revealed that the US aircraft flew 
directly into a flock of birds shortly after takeoff from 
New York’s LaGuardia Airport. This resulted in both 
engines losing, but the plane had gained enough 
altitude to glide. The pilots were able to ditch the 
Airbus A320 in the Hudson River between Manhattan 
and New Jersey, with all on board surviving.
As for the AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad last week, which 
killed 242 passengers on board, the investigation team 
is trying to retrieve clues to establish the cause behind 
the tragedy. So far, a conclusive answer is yet to be 
derived. Industry experts say that irrespective of the 
findings, the devastating incident underscores the 
need for continuous checks and follow-up actions.
“Following the unfortunate tragedy in Ahmedabad, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation(DGCA) has taken 
precautionary steps. The DGCA has reportedly instructed Air India to carry out thorough maintenance 
procedures on its 789-8/9 aircraft fitted with GEnx engines, in coordination with regional DGCA offices, 
informs Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One.
He also highlights the need for clear crisis communications and stricter protocols across the board. “A one-
time comprehensive inspection should be made mandatory for all aircraft before departure. Take-off 
parameters should be reviewed each time, not just periodically. Introducing a regular “flight control 
inspection” routine would add an extra layer of security,” he adds.
Mr  Mirchandani says that crises can impose 
psychological strain upon various stakeholders in the 
aviation sector, including authorities. “Most of the 
pressure will be felt by pilots. the intricate and stressful 
nature of their work makes it crucial for pilots to receive 
support and refresher training sessions. These can 
include scenario-based training, which exposes them to 
difficult and realistic situations. Full-motion simulator 
training. where they experience various condition-from 
extreme weather to system faults, engine failures to 
hydraulic leaks-is important, “he adds
In his opinion, emergency drills should be a regular part of the training routine, especially before pilots are 
assigned heavy-duty responsibilities. Instead of relying solely on traditionally scheduled inspections and post-
incident repairs, airlines can adopt advanced measures like AI-based predictive maintenance techniques to 
identify early signs of technical issues before they escalate, he adds.
“We must remember that even though aircraft are considered among the safest and most reliable modes of 
travel, it doesn’t mean safety procedures can be overlooked. At times, technicians may grow complacent and skip 
essential checks. Also, every time a mishap occurs, there’s a knee-jerk reactions, but eventually the urgency 
fades and follow-ups slow down-something that needs to be addressed,” concludes Mr.Mirchandani.
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