Air India plane crash investigation: ICPA slams speculative reports on pilot error, defends Air India crew

The Indian Commercial Pilots’ Association (ICPA) has condemned what it described as “reckless and unfounded” speculation surrounding the crew of Air India flight AI 171, particularly dismissing rumours of pilot suicide as baseless and insensitive.

In an official statement, the association said it stood firmly behind the flight crew, criticising media reports and public commentary that have made “irresponsible” allegations based on preliminary or incomplete information.

“Let us be unequivocally clear: there is absolutely no basis for such a claim at this stage and invoking such a serious allegation based on incomplete or preliminary information is not only irresponsible — it is deeply insensitive to the individuals and families involved,” the ICPA said.

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Highlighting the rigorous training and psychological screening that pilots undergo, the association said such speculation undermines not only the professionalism of flight crews but the standards upheld across the aviation sector.

“Pilots undergo extensive psychological and professional screening, recurrent training, and operate under the highest standards of safety, responsibility, and mental fitness. To casually suggest pilot suicide in the absence of verified evidence is a gross violation of ethical reporting and a disservice to the dignity of the profession,” the statement read.

The ICPA urged the media and public to respect the ongoing official investigation, calling for restraint and adherence to due process. It said the probe being conducted by competent authorities would reveal the facts in due course and “should not be prejudged”.

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“As aviation professionals, we trust and respect the rigorous investigative protocols established by competent authorities… any speculation—especially of such a grave nature—is unacceptable and must be condemned,” the association reiterated.

Reaffirming its commitment to supporting its members, the ICPA said the crew of AI 171 acted according to their training and responsibilities during a challenging situation and deserve respect, not vilification based on conjecture.

“We call upon media organisations and public commentators to act with restraint, empathy, and respect for due process,” it association said.