Indian pilots’ association urges the public and media not to blame the Air India crew involved in the recent crash, emphasizing the need for a fair investigation.

Don’t Vilify Air India Crash Crew: Indian Pilots’ Association Urges Fairness

Introduction: A Call for Fairness Amid Tragedy

In the wake of the tragic Air India Express crash in Kozhikode, the Indian Commercial Pilots’ Association (ICPA) has spoken out, urging the public and media not to blame or vilify the flight crew involved. The association stressed that drawing premature conclusions or targeting the pilots without a comprehensive investigation is both unfair and damaging to the morale of aviation professionals.

Background: The Kozhikode Tragedy

On August 7, 2020, an Air India Express flight (IX-1344), part of the Vande Bharat repatriation mission, skidded off the runway at the Kozhikode airport in Kerala. The aircraft, a Boeing 737, overshot the tabletop runway during heavy rainfall and broke into two pieces after plunging down a slope. The crash resulted in the death of 21 people, including both pilots, and injuries to several others.

The aviation community and the public were shocked. As is often the case with high-profile aviation accidents, early narratives began to form. Unfortunately, some of these narratives placed undue blame on the cockpit crew.

The ICPA, representing Indian commercial pilots, emphasized that blaming the pilots at this early stage is not only unwarranted but also deeply disrespectful to the lives lost and the families affected. In a statement, the association said:

“We urge the media and public to wait for the official investigation report before forming opinions or assigning blame. The pilots made the ultimate sacrifice while doing their duty—bringing people home in the middle of a global pandemic.”

According to the ICPA, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) must be given time and space to conduct a thorough investigation. Aviation accidents are complex, often resulting from a combination of mechanical, environmental, and human factors. Jumping to conclusions before all the facts are known undermines the purpose of such investigations and creates unnecessary fear and distrust among the flying public.

The association also pointed out that tabletop runways—such as the one in Kozhikode—require extra caution due to their geographic limitations. Over the years, several experts have warned about safety risks associated with these types of runways.

Eyewitness accounts and reports from survivors indicated that the pilots tried their best to land the aircraft safely under extremely challenging conditions. Despite adverse weather and a slippery runway, they managed to prevent a fire—something that could have made the situation even worse.

“Even after the crash, the cabin crew and emergency responders acted swiftly to evacuate passengers, potentially saving many lives,” said the ICPA. “This is not negligence; this is professionalism under pressure.”

The ICPA called on the media to exercise restraint and responsibility. Sensationalist reporting not only disrespects those who died but also causes undue stress to their grieving families and colleagues. They urged media houses to focus on facts rather than speculation, and to avoid scapegoating the crew without solid evidence.

“What we need now is empathy, not finger-pointing. We owe it to the deceased pilots to honor their memory with dignity,” the statement added.

While defending the crew, the ICPA also highlighted the importance of using this tragic event as a catalyst to improve aviation safety infrastructure in India. Concerns about runway safety, airport design, and equipment need to be addressed to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Training, better weather forecasting tools, and improvements in air traffic management were also suggested as areas requiring urgent attention. The association emphasized that systemic issues—not individual blame—should be the primary focus.

The Kozhikode crash is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers faced by aviation professionals every day. While grieving the loss of lives, including the brave pilots who perished, it is vital that investigations be allowed to proceed without public bias or media trials.

The Indian Commercial Pilots’ Association has made a strong appeal for fairness, respect, and accountability rooted in truth—not speculation. As the official investigation unfolds, the hope is that lessons will be learned, systems improved, and justice delivered—without vilifying those who cannot defend themselves.

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