It has been exactly one year since the Air India flight 154 plunged into the sea off the coast of Mumbai, killing all 162 passengers and crew on board. Yet for the families of the victims, the passage of time has not brought closure. Six critical questions remain unanswered, casting a long shadow over the investigation.
First, why did the Boeing 747 experience sudden engine failure at 35,000 feet? Preliminary reports pointed to a bird strike, but the flight data recorder suggests a catastrophic mechanical failure. Investigators have not ruled out sabotage.
Second, why was the cockpit voice recorder silent for the final two minutes? The device cut off abruptly, leaving no record of the pilots’ final exchanges. Some experts suspect an intentional shutdown.
Third, why did the distress signal fail? The emergency locator transmitter never activated, delaying rescue efforts by hours. This is a crucial lapse that could have cost lives.
Fourth, what caused the hull to break apart on impact? Survivors in the tail section reported a violent shudder before the water struck. Structural fatigue has been questioned, but no definitive evidence has been released.
Fifth, why have no black boxes been recovered? Despite extensive undersea searches, both the flight data and cockpit voice recorders remain missing. This hinders the final report.
Sixth, and most painfully for the families, why has no one been held accountable? The airline’s maintenance records are under scrutiny, but no charges have been filed. The question of liability lingers.
As the anniversary passes, the families gather by the sea, lighting candles and demanding answers. The government has promised a thorough review. But promises wear thin. The ghost of Air India 154 still haunts the aviation industry, a reminder that sometimes the most important questions are the hardest to answer.
