Air India Crash: Investigation Intensifies Amid Allegations of Foreign Sabotage
New Delhi, June 14, 2025
The tragic crash of an Air India Boeing 787-8 en route from Ahmedabad to London has prompted intense scrutiny, with yoga guru Baba Ramdev alleging possible foreign sabotage linked to Turkish maintenance firms. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is actively investigating the incident, which claimed 241 lives onboard and 33 on the ground, with one passenger miraculously surviving.
The flight, departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, crashed shortly after takeoff, striking a medical college hostel in a residential area. The AAIB is exploring multiple factors, including engine or landing gear failure, bird strikes, and maintenance irregularities. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, with a final report due within a year.
Allegations of Sabotage and Geopolitical Tensions
Baba Ramdev, addressing the media, suggested that maintenance by a Turkish agency could indicate sabotage, though he provided no evidence to substantiate the claim. His remarks align with growing concerns over foreign involvement in India’s aviation sector, particularly amid strained India-Turkey relations due to Turkey’s support for Pakistan and criticism of India.
In response, Adani Airport Holdings terminated ground-handling contracts with Celebi NAS Airport Services at Mumbai and Ahmedabad airports after the Government of India revoked Celebi’s security clearance, citing national security concerns. Both airports confirmed a seamless transition to ensure operational continuity.
Air India’s Maintenance Strategy Shift
Air India CEO Campbell Wilson announced plans to reduce reliance on Turkish Technic for heavy Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) of wide-body aircraft. The airline will redirect maintenance to facilities in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and the U.S., driven by geopolitical sensitivities and limited domestic MRO capacity. This shift reflects a broader reevaluation of maintenance contracts to prioritize national security and public confidence.
Ongoing Investigation and Policy Reforms
The AAIB’s investigation is examining all aspects of the crash, including technical failures and potential security lapses. The government is also reviewing policies governing foreign firms’ access to critical aviation roles, with potential reforms expected to enhance oversight and security protocols.
As recovery efforts continue and the investigation unfolds, the aviation sector faces mounting pressure to address safety, geopolitical risks, and operational resilience. Authorities are committed to uncovering the cause of the tragedy and ensuring accountability to prevent future incidents.
Sources: , CNN/PTI*
