Air India Plane Crash Investigation: Black Box Sent to US for Data Recovery

India is continuing its investigation into the Air India plane crash, sending the damaged black box to the US for analysis. The black box, crucial for understanding the crash, was found heavily damaged, prompting the need for advanced facilities. The investigation involves the National Transportation Safety Board and the UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch due to the loss of British nationals. The crash, which occurred shortly after takeoff, resulted in significant casualties both on board and on the ground. This article delves into the details of the investigation and the role of international agencies.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2025, 11:19 IST

Ongoing Investigation into Air India Crash

India is actively pursuing its investigation into the recent Air India plane crash. As part of this effort, the black box from the Boeing 787 Dreamliner that crashed will be dispatched to the United States for detailed analysis. This device was retrieved two days post-incident but was found to be significantly damaged externally. Due to the severity of the damage, Indian experts were unable to extract any usable data. Consequently, the black box will be sent to the US, where advanced facilities may assist in recovering vital information.

Data Extraction Process

As reported by a financial publication, the data from the Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR) will be analyzed at the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) laboratory in Washington. The findings will subsequently be communicated to India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which is overseeing the crash investigation. It is important to highlight that international regulations stipulate that the country where the accident occurs is responsible for the investigation.

AAIB's Laboratory Status

Although the AAIB established a laboratory in Delhi last year, it is not yet fully equipped to handle data extraction from severely damaged recorders. A source involved in the investigation mentioned that the NTSB team will transport the black box to their lab under the supervision of Indian officials to ensure adherence to proper protocols.

UK's Involvement in the Investigation

Given that 53 British nationals were among the deceased, the United Kingdom’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch will also participate in the inquiry. The Air India flight, which was en route to London from Ahmedabad, tragically crashed moments after takeoff, resulting in the loss of 241 lives, with only one survivor.

Crash Details

The aircraft crashed into BJ Medical College in Meghaninagar, claiming the lives of 33 individuals on the ground on June 12. The black box, a crucial element in crash investigations, consists of two components: the flight data recorder and the cockpit voice recorder. It is painted in bright orange for easy location post-crash. While designed to endure extreme impacts, the black box often suffers significant damage due to the force of the crash or subsequent fires.