Air India Crash Investigation Shifts Spotlight to Senior Pilot

In a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the tragic Air India Express crash, fresh evidence has emerged that places increased scrutiny on the actions of the senior pilot in command. The probe, led by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has shifted focus following a deeper review of cockpit voice recordings, flight data, and testimonies from aviation experts.

The incident, which occurred at Kozhikode Airport, claimed 21 lives and left over 100 injured when the aircraft skidded off the runway during landing in heavy rainfall. Initial reports had cited poor weather and runway conditions as contributing factors. However, investigators now believe that crucial decisions made by the senior pilot may have directly influenced the outcome of the landing.

According to sources familiar with the investigation, the aircraft approached the runway at a higher-than-recommended speed and touched down much further along the wet runway than it should have. This left insufficient room for the aircraft to stop safely, leading it to plunge into a gorge at the runway’s end.

Flight data also indicates that the pilot opted to attempt a landing despite deteriorating weather and low visibility, a decision that aviation experts now question. Although the co-pilot had reportedly expressed concerns, the final decision rested with the senior commander, whose judgment is now under review.

The DGCA has confirmed that a more detailed examination of the pilot’s training records, decision-making processes, and adherence to protocol is underway. Officials are also evaluating whether Air India Express' crew resource management (CRM) practices provided enough checks and balances in critical flight

phases.

A senior official involved in the probe said, “This shift in focus doesn’t mean others are not being held accountable. But based on current evidence, we need to examine the chain of command and the decisions taken in the cockpit during those crucial final moments.”

This development is expected to lead to tighter protocols around wet runway landings, especially in challenging terrains like Kozhikode, where tabletop runways offer limited margins for error. The DGCA has already issued advisories to airlines on crew decision-making under adverse weather conditions.

Family members of the victims have responded to the findings with a mix of hope and frustration—hope that the investigation is finally addressing what they believe were preventable errors, and frustration at the time it has taken to bring clarity to the case.

As the investigation nears its final phase, the aviation industry and regulatory bodies are closely watching the outcome, which could lead to broader changes in pilot training, accountability, and infrastructure safety in India’s civil aviation sector.