A passenger who miraculously survived the Air India Express crash in Kerala, India, is recounting the horrific ordeal from his hospital bed, detailing the chaos and devastation following the Boeing 737’s skid off the runway at Calicut International Airport (CCJ) on August 7, 2020, which resulted in the loss of at least 18 lives, including both pilots.
Survivor Recounts Harrowing Air India Express Crash
NEW DELHI – A survivor of the ill-fated Air India Express flight IX-1344 that crashed in Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala, is providing a chilling account of the moments leading up to and following the disaster. Speaking from his hospital bed, the passenger, identified as Ashraf, described the intense shaking of the aircraft upon landing, the deafening sound of impact, and the subsequent scramble to escape the wreckage. His testimony sheds light on the harrowing experiences of those onboard and the sheer luck involved in surviving the crash.
Ashraf, a resident of Kerala, was returning home from Dubai when the flight encountered heavy rainfall and challenging weather conditions. He recounted the palpable tension among passengers as the aircraft made its initial landing attempt, which was aborted. The second attempt proved fatal, as the plane overshot the runway, plunged into a valley, and broke into two pieces.
“I felt the plane shaking a lot, and then suddenly, there was a big noise,” Ashraf said, recalling the moment of impact. “Everything went dark, and I didn’t know what was happening for a few seconds. When I came to, I could hear people screaming and crying.”
He described the scene as one of utter chaos, with debris scattered everywhere and emergency lights flickering intermittently. Despite his own injuries, Ashraf managed to extricate himself from his seat and navigate through the wreckage in search of an exit.
“It was like a nightmare,” he said. “There was blood everywhere, and people were trapped under seats and pieces of the plane. I just wanted to get out.”
With the help of other survivors, Ashraf managed to reach a point where rescue workers were pulling people from the wreckage. He was subsequently transported to a local hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment for his injuries.
Ashraf’s account underscores the severity of the crash and the extraordinary circumstances that allowed some passengers to survive. His story adds to the growing body of evidence that will be crucial in determining the precise cause of the accident and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Initial Landing Attempt Aborted
According to Ashraf, the flight crew had initially attempted to land the aircraft but aborted the landing due to adverse weather conditions. “The pilot announced that he was going around for another try,” Ashraf stated. This decision, while seemingly prudent at the time, ultimately preceded the fatal second landing attempt. Aviation experts suggest that the decision to abort a landing is often a complex one, weighing the risks of continuing the approach against the potential dangers of a go-around, especially in challenging weather.
Heavy Rainfall and Poor Visibility
The prevailing weather conditions at the time of the crash were undoubtedly a significant factor. Heavy rainfall had reduced visibility considerably, making it difficult for the pilots to accurately assess the runway and surrounding terrain. Ashraf confirmed the poor visibility, noting that the windows were streaming with rain as the plane approached the airport. This information aligns with meteorological reports from the area, which indicated substantial precipitation and low cloud cover on the day of the accident.
The Impact and Aftermath
Ashraf described the moment of impact as violent and disorienting. “The plane hit the ground hard, and then there was a loud bang,” he said. “I felt like I was being thrown around inside a washing machine.” The force of the impact caused the aircraft to split into two major sections, compounding the severity of the crash and making it more difficult for passengers to escape.
The aftermath was marked by scenes of chaos and desperation. Passengers who were able to move attempted to help others, while rescue workers struggled to reach those trapped within the wreckage. Ashraf praised the efforts of the local community, who were among the first to arrive at the scene and provide assistance. “The people of Kerala were amazing,” he said. “They came from everywhere to help us. I will never forget their kindness.”
Rescue Efforts and Medical Assistance
The rescue operation was swift and coordinated, involving local authorities, disaster response teams, and volunteers from the surrounding area. Injured passengers were transported to various hospitals in Kozhikode and nearby cities, where they received medical treatment. Ashraf expressed his gratitude to the doctors and nurses who were caring for him. “They are doing everything they can to help us recover,” he said.
The Air India Express crash prompted an immediate response from the Indian government, which launched an investigation into the causes of the accident. The investigation is expected to examine a range of factors, including weather conditions, pilot error, mechanical failure, and runway conditions.
Investigation Launched
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India is leading the investigation into the crash. The “black boxes,” including the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and the flight data recorder (FDR), were recovered from the wreckage and sent for analysis. These devices are expected to provide critical information about the flight’s final moments, including the pilots’ actions, the aircraft’s performance, and any technical issues that may have contributed to the accident. The investigation will likely take several months to complete, and its findings will be crucial in determining the precise cause of the crash and recommending measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Runway Conditions and Safety Concerns
The runway at Calicut International Airport has been a subject of scrutiny in the past due to its “tabletop” design. Tabletop runways are characterized by their location on elevated terrain, with steep drops at either end. This design can pose challenges for pilots, particularly during landings in adverse weather conditions. Concerns about the runway’s safety have been raised by aviation experts and pilots over the years, and the Air India Express crash has renewed calls for a comprehensive review of runway safety standards at airports with similar designs.
DGCA Statement
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s aviation regulatory body, has stated that it is committed to ensuring the safety of air travel and will take all necessary steps to prevent future accidents. The DGCA has initiated a special audit of all airports in the country to assess their safety standards and identify any potential areas of concern. The audit will focus on runway conditions, air traffic control procedures, and emergency response capabilities.
Compensation and Support for Victims
Air India Express has announced that it will provide compensation to the families of the deceased and to those who were injured in the crash. The airline has also established a helpline to provide assistance to affected families. The Indian government has also announced additional financial assistance for the victims and their families. The compensation packages are intended to provide financial relief and support to those who have suffered as a result of the tragedy.
Pilot’s Experience and Training
Preliminary reports suggest that the pilot of the Air India Express flight was highly experienced, with thousands of hours of flying time. However, investigators will be examining the pilot’s training records and performance history to determine whether any factors related to pilot error may have contributed to the crash. The investigation will also assess the pilot’s familiarity with the Calicut airport and its unique runway conditions.
Boeing 737 Safety Record
The Boeing 737 is one of the most widely used aircraft in the world, with a generally good safety record. However, the Air India Express crash has raised questions about the safety of the 737, particularly in challenging operating conditions. The investigation will examine the aircraft’s maintenance records and its performance during the flight to determine whether any mechanical issues may have played a role in the accident.
Impact on Air Travel in India
The Air India Express crash has had a significant impact on air travel in India, particularly on routes to and from the Gulf region. Many passengers are now hesitant to fly, and airlines are facing increased scrutiny from regulators and the public. The accident has also highlighted the need for improved safety standards and better training for pilots and air traffic controllers. The aviation industry in India is expected to undergo a period of intense review and reform in the wake of the crash.
Air India Express History
Air India Express is a low-cost subsidiary of Air India, operating primarily on routes connecting India with the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The airline has a fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The Air India Express crash is the most serious accident in the airline’s history, and it has raised questions about the airline’s safety practices and operational procedures.
The Importance of Black Box Data
The analysis of the black box data is a critical component of the investigation into the Air India Express crash. The CVR will provide insights into the pilots’ communications and decision-making processes during the flight, while the FDR will provide detailed information about the aircraft’s performance, including its speed, altitude, and heading. By analyzing this data, investigators hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that led to the accident.
Community Response and Support
The local community in Kozhikode responded to the Air India Express crash with remarkable compassion and support. Residents rushed to the scene to assist with the rescue efforts, providing food, water, and comfort to the survivors. Local hospitals and medical facilities were overwhelmed with patients, but doctors and nurses worked tirelessly to provide care. The community’s response to the tragedy has been widely praised as an example of humanity and solidarity in the face of adversity.
Pilot Fatigue and Workload
The investigation into the Air India Express crash is also likely to examine the issue of pilot fatigue and workload. Pilots are often subjected to demanding schedules and long hours, which can lead to fatigue and impaired performance. The investigation will assess the pilot’s duty schedule leading up to the crash to determine whether fatigue may have been a contributing factor. The investigation will also consider the workload and stress levels that the pilots were experiencing during the flight.
Weather Forecasting and Communication
Accurate weather forecasting and effective communication between meteorologists, air traffic controllers, and pilots are essential for ensuring the safety of air travel. The investigation into the Air India Express crash will examine the quality of the weather forecasts that were available to the pilots and air traffic controllers, as well as the effectiveness of the communication channels that were used to disseminate weather information. The investigation will also assess whether any improvements can be made to the weather forecasting and communication systems to enhance aviation safety.
Future Safety Recommendations
Based on the findings of the investigation, the AAIB is expected to issue a series of safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar accidents in the future. These recommendations may include changes to runway design standards, improvements to air traffic control procedures, enhancements to pilot training programs, and stricter regulations on pilot fatigue and workload. The implementation of these recommendations will be crucial for ensuring the safety of air travel in India and around the world.
The Psychological Impact on Survivors
The Air India Express crash has had a profound psychological impact on the survivors, many of whom are struggling to cope with the trauma of the accident. Many survivors are experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression. Mental health professionals are providing counseling and support to the survivors to help them recover from the psychological effects of the crash.
Role of Air Traffic Control
The role of air traffic control (ATC) in the Air India Express crash is also being scrutinized as part of the investigation. ATC is responsible for providing guidance and instructions to pilots to ensure the safe and efficient flow of air traffic. The investigation will examine the communications between the pilots and ATC during the flight’s approach and landing to determine whether ATC provided adequate support and guidance. The investigation will also assess whether any errors or omissions on the part of ATC may have contributed to the accident.
Aircraft Maintenance Records
A thorough review of the aircraft’s maintenance records is another critical aspect of the investigation. These records provide a history of all maintenance work performed on the aircraft, including inspections, repairs, and replacements of components. The investigation will examine the maintenance records to determine whether any mechanical issues or defects may have been present that could have contributed to the crash.
International Aviation Safety Standards
The Air India Express crash has also prompted a broader discussion about international aviation safety standards. While aviation safety regulations are generally harmonized across countries, there may be differences in the way these regulations are implemented and enforced. The investigation will consider whether any gaps or weaknesses in international aviation safety standards may have contributed to the accident.
The Future of Calicut Airport
The future of Calicut International Airport is uncertain in the wake of the Air India Express crash. Some aviation experts have called for the airport to be closed or downgraded due to safety concerns about the tabletop runway design. However, the airport is an important transportation hub for the region, and its closure would have a significant economic impact. The Indian government is considering various options for the airport, including upgrading the runway, improving safety measures, and restricting the types of aircraft that can operate at the airport.
Technological Advancements in Aviation Safety
The Air India Express crash has also highlighted the importance of technological advancements in aviation safety. New technologies, such as enhanced ground proximity warning systems (EGPWS) and runway overrun alerting systems (ROAS), can help pilots avoid accidents by providing timely warnings of potential hazards. The investigation will consider whether the use of these technologies could have prevented the Air India Express crash.
Conclusion
The Air India Express crash in Kozhikode was a tragic event that resulted in the loss of many lives. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and its findings will be crucial for preventing similar accidents in the future. The accident has also highlighted the importance of aviation safety, pilot training, air traffic control, and runway design. By learning from this tragedy, the aviation industry can work to make air travel safer for everyone. The survivor’s account provides a crucial human perspective on the disaster, underscoring the harrowing experience and the urgent need for continued vigilance in aviation safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What caused the Air India Express flight IX-1344 to crash in Kozhikode?
The precise cause is still under investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of India. However, initial reports indicate that heavy rainfall and poor visibility were significant factors. The aircraft overshot the runway during its second landing attempt and crashed into a valley. The investigation is also examining potential pilot error, mechanical failure, and runway conditions as contributing factors. The black box data is being analyzed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the events leading to the crash.
2. What is a “tabletop” runway, and why are they considered more dangerous?
A tabletop runway is a runway located on elevated terrain, with steep drops at either end. This design can pose challenges for pilots, especially during landings in adverse weather conditions, as there is less margin for error. If an aircraft overshoots the runway, the steep drop-off can lead to a severe accident. Calicut International Airport has a tabletop runway, which has raised safety concerns in the past.
3. What compensation is being provided to the victims and their families?
Air India Express has announced that it will provide compensation to the families of the deceased and to those who were injured in the crash. The airline has also established a helpline to provide assistance to affected families. The Indian government has also announced additional financial assistance for the victims and their families. The exact amounts of compensation vary depending on the severity of the injury or loss.
4. What steps are being taken to improve aviation safety in India following the crash?
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a special audit of all airports in the country to assess their safety standards and identify any potential areas of concern. The audit will focus on runway conditions, air traffic control procedures, and emergency response capabilities. The investigation into the crash will also lead to safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar accidents in the future, which may include changes to runway design standards, improvements to air traffic control procedures, and enhancements to pilot training programs.
5. What is the role of the black boxes (CVR and FDR) in the investigation?
The cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and the flight data recorder (FDR), commonly known as black boxes, are crucial for understanding the events leading to the Air India Express crash. The CVR records the pilots’ communications and decision-making processes during the flight, while the FDR records detailed information about the aircraft’s performance, including its speed, altitude, and heading. By analyzing this data, investigators hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contributed to the accident.
