The Timeline of Events Leading to the Air India Flight 171 Crash
Background of Air India Flight 171
Air India Flight 171 was a scheduled passenger service operated by Air India. The flight, utilizing a Boeing 737-800, was part of a robust domestic route network in India. This aircraft model has a reputation for reliability with a history of safe operations. However, on the ill-fated day, several factors cumulatively led to a tragic outcome.
Pre-Crash Events
March 5, 2022 – Flight Preparation
On March 5, 2022, Air India Flight 171 was set to depart from Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. The crew conducted a pre-flight check, ensuring the aircraft met all operational safety standards.
March 5, 2022 – Weather Assessment
Leading up to the scheduled departure, meteorological updates indicated adverse weather conditions in Mumbai. Heavy rainfall, thunderstorm activity, and gusty winds were predicted. Flight operations management and the crew consulted weather reports and radar data but decided not to delay the flight.
Departure and Takeoff
March 5, 2022 – Boarding and Pre-flight Procedures
Passengers began boarding around 7 PM IST. The boarding process was efficient, and the flight was fully booked. Check-in personnel ensured that all luggage was accounted for and that safety protocols were observed.
March 5, 2022 – Takeoff
At approximately 8 PM IST, Flight 171 took off from Delhi. The takeoff went smoothly, with the full complement of 180 passengers and crew members aboard. During the climb, initial flight parameters were checked, and the aircraft was reported to be operating normally, despite the impending adverse weather in Mumbai.
Mid-Flight Developments
March 5, 2022 – Turbulence Encountered
As Flight 171 approached the western coast of India, the aircraft began to encounter substantial turbulence. The crew communicated with air traffic control, reporting their altitude and conditions while managing passenger expectations regarding potential in-flight instability due to weather.
March 5, 2022 – Change in Descent Profile
Upon nearing Mumbai, the pilot received instructions to modify their approach pattern due to the changing weather dynamics. The airplane was directed to take a holding pattern before initiating the descent to navigate around heavy precipitation and to maintain safety protocols as conditions evolved.
Final Approach
March 5, 2022 – Descent Initiation
At approximately 8:45 PM IST, Flight 171 began its descent towards Mumbai. Communication with Mumbai Air Traffic Control continued as the crew reported worsening conditions. The decision was made to divert to an alternate airport if conditions did not improve.
March 5, 2022 – Critical Phase of Flight
As the aircraft broke through the cloud cover during its final approach, visibility dropped significantly because of heavy rain and wind shear. The pilots attempted to stabilize the aircraft, utilizing their training to manage unexpected shifts in airflow.
The Crash Sequence
March 5, 2022 – Missed Approach Decision
Shortly after attempting to land, the flight crew determined that conditions were unsafe. At approximately 8:55 PM IST, a decision was made to execute a missed approach, initiate a climb, and circle back for a second attempt. However, the tailwind and downdraft created an unstable flying environment.
March 5, 2022 – Severe Weather Impact
At this point, severe weather impacts intensified. The aircraft was struck by a sudden gust that caused a significant drop in altitude. The pilots attempted to regain control, but the unexpected turbulence proved overwhelming for the crew.
March 5, 2022 – Final Moments
At 8:57 PM IST, as the aircraft neared the ground level, the left wing made contact with the runway. The collision with the runway surface resulted in loss of structural integrity, leading to a catastrophic failure. The aircraft crashed, bursting into flames shortly thereafter.
Immediate Aftermath
March 5, 2022 – Emergency Response
Emergency services arrived promptly. Despite their quick response, the fire and structural damage severely hindered rescue efforts. The authorities managed to evacuate several survivors, but unfortunately, many perished in the tragedy.
March 5, 2022 – Fatalities and Casualties
Initial reports indicated a heightened casualty rate, with the loss of crew members and numerous passengers. Onboard fatalities were documented amid a chaotic evacuation process.
Investigation Initiation
March 6, 2022 – Investigation Launched
In the immediate aftermath, the Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) launched an investigation into the crash. Investigators combed through wreckage, analyzing flight data recorders and cockpit voice recorders to gain insights into the flight’s operations leading up to the tragedy.
March 9, 2022 – Preliminary Findings
Preliminary reports revealed that the severe weather was a significant contributing factor. The investigation focused on human factors, assessing pilot training for severe weather scenarios and adherence to protocols during emergencies.
Regulatory Impact
March 2022 – Policy Re-evaluation
Following the incident, the DGCA began a series of reviews regarding weather-related flight operations. New guidelines were proposed focusing on enhanced pilot training in adverse weather scenarios and tighter restrictions on flying during severe meteorological conditions.
April 2022 – Safety Enhancements
In response to the crash, Air India committed to further improving their operational protocols, providing more comprehensive training and technology updates for navigating turbulence and inclement weather.
These events encapsulate the critical timeline leading to the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171. The cumulative impacts of operational decisions, weather conditions, and safety protocols ultimately coalesced into a disaster that prompted further investigation and regulatory changes in aviation safety.