Ahmedabad Air India Crash: Second Black Box Recovered, 87 Victims Identified
Investigators recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), the second black box, from the Air India plane that crashed in Ahmedabad, killing 270 people (241 onboard, 29 on ground). Analysis of the CVR and Flight Data Recorder is crucial to determine the cause. So far, 87 victims, including former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani, have been identified via DNA matching, with 47 bodies released to families. The state has declared a day of mourning.
Unpacked:
The Cockpit Voice Recorder captures pilot conversations, cockpit sounds, and alarms, helping reconstruct crew actions and communications before the crash. The Flight Data Recorder logs technical parameters like speed, altitude, and system states, showing the aircraft’s performance. Together, they help investigators determine the sequence of events and root causes of the accident.
Victims are being identified through DNA matching due to the severity of the crash, which often results in bodies being unrecognizable. DNA samples from remains are compared with those from relatives to confirm identities, ensuring accuracy in returning the bodies to families.
Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani’s death is significant due to his high political profile, which amplifies public attention and official response. His passing may intensify mourning in the state and prompt additional government support for affected families.
Authorities have declared a day of mourning, and Air India’s owner, Tata Group, is providing ₹1 crore (about $116,000) in compensation per victim and covering medical expenses for the injured. Air India is also conducting safety inspections of its Boeing 787 fleet as ordered by regulators.