Air India AI-171 crash probe in final stages, report likely soon: Ram Mohan Naidu

The investigation into the Air India AI-171 plane crash is in its final stages, and the report is expected to be released soon, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said on Wednesday. He stated that the inquiry was being carried out with complete transparency and accountability, considering the international nature of the incident.

Probe nears completion, report expected soon: Ram Mohan Naidu

Speaking to reporters, the minister said the probe extends beyond India's borders because the aircraft was operating an international flight, making it a matter of wider global interest.

"The investigation is in its final stages... This investigation doesn't just concern India because it was an international flight... Anybody can scrutinise this investigation, that is why we want it to be completely transparent, fair, and accountable... I believe that we will get the report soon," Kinjarapu said, ANI reported.

International dimension puts focus on transparency

He emphasised that the investigation process is open to scrutiny and is being conducted in a fair and transparent manner. According to him, authorities are ensuring that every aspect of the incident is examined carefully before the final report is released.

Ahmedabad tragedy claimed 260 lives

The Air India AI-171 crash occurred on June 12 last year when a Boeing 787-8 aircraft crashed shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The accident claimed 260 lives, including passengers, crew members and people on the ground, making it one of the most tragic aviation disasters in recent times.

Ranchi airport gets Udaan Yatri Cafe

During his visit to Ranchi, the minister also announced the launch of a Udaan Yatri Cafe at the airport, aimed at offering affordable food and beverage facilities to passengers. He said similar facilities had already been introduced at several airports across the country and had received encouraging public response.

"Today, there is also a program at the airport... The Udaan Yatri Cafe at the airport, which has also been a demand of the passengers. We have opened it at many airports in the country... The people here also demanded that a Udaan Yatri Cafe be opened here as well. The purpose of this is to have food and beverage arrangements at the airport at affordable prices. The response from people has also been very good. Today, we will start it," Kinjarapu said.

He added that the initiative was introduced in Ranchi following passenger demand and is intended to make airport services more accessible and economical for travellers.

Minister touches upon West Asia concerns

The minister also spoke about broader national concerns, including the ongoing situation in West Asia, stressing the need for collective efforts to address challenges arising from the regional crisis. He also described Ranchi as a beautiful city and spoke about the importance of coordinated efforts in dealing with emerging issues.

"Ranchi is a very beautiful city and I got the chance to see it up close while coming on the bike. This is also like a contribution. This effort is being made to see how the country can collectively tackle the crisis caused by West Asia," the minister said.

With inputs from ANI