In the aftermath of the tragic Air India flight AI171 crash near Ahmedabad, critical questions surround the safety of Boeing 787 aircraft and the handling of redundant systems when faced with unusual hazards. The focus has sharpened on a particular set of vulnerabilities—specifically, power disruptions caused by water leaks near essential electrical equipment.
The Attorney’s Investigation
Mike Andrews, a prominent attorney with the law firm Beasley Allen, is representing 85 families affected by the disaster. According to Andrews, exclusive documents obtained from both Boeing and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) indicate defects in the aircraft’s water supply and tank systems—most notably, issues with coupling systems located above or adjacent to electrical equipment rooms. “Reports speak of water leaking in the areas that can affect electrical continuity and cause short circuits,” Andrews told CNN-News18.
These findings raise concerns about the integrity of Boeing 787’s multiple redundant systems. While the aircraft is designed to withstand various failure scenarios, the possibility of simultaneous faults sparked by water intrusion near critical electrical systems challenges the notion of built-in safety.
Legal Angle and Data Access
Andrews admitted that his legal team has not yet received access to the flight data recorder, a crucial piece of evidence for unraveling the crash’s causes. Instead, the team has relied on Boeing, FAA, and previously reported issues associated with the 787. Maintenance records and data about replacement parts, especially couplings in water systems, have become key targets in their ongoing investigation.
The search for answers is partly stymied by the limited data released publicly. “We think AAIB’s preliminary report is open to speculations as only a small piece of information was released,” Andrews said. “Whenever context is derived from a small piece of information, it can be misinterpreted.” Calls for complete transparency have thus far been met with partial disclosure and bureaucratic red tape.
Seeking Accountability and Supporting Families
For families torn apart by the disaster, answers remain elusive. According to Andrews, their foremost demand is transparency and accountability—from Air India, Boeing, and government authorities. Many relatives have struggled not only with grief and loss but also with administrative hurdles. Compensation packages, though improved, still require families to navigate complex paperwork and bureaucracy.
As legal proceedings contemplate the possibility of manufacturing or design defects as root causes, Andrews notes, “If we can determine that it is a causative factor here, we will be certainly looking at holding those issues responsible.” The path forward involves piecing together a complex puzzle from aircraft maintenance records, manufacturer bulletins, and regulatory documentation.
One notable aspect of the ongoing discussion is Andrews’ criticism of attempts to blame the pilots. He labels this approach a “low-hanging fruit” and emphasizes the need to investigate broader systemic issues rather than place sole responsibility on individuals who cannot defend themselves.
Final Words
The AI171 tragedy has highlighted uncomfortable questions about aircraft design, manufacturer protocols, and regulatory safeguards. The quest for transparency continues, motivated by bereaved families determined to prevent future disasters and to ensure the aviation sector learns vital lessons from the losses endured.
