Why US & UK Experts Joined AI-171 Crash Probe: Chicago Convention Decoded

The Legal Framework: Chicago Convention & Annex 13
Core Principles
Signed: 1944 (ICAO oversees implementation)
Goal: Standardize global aviation safety protocols
Key Clause: Annex 13 mandates accident investigations focus solely on safety improvements, not liability.

Hierarchy of Investigation Rights
State of Occurrence (India):
Leads probe through Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB)
Controls wreckage access and evidence collection
State of Design/Manufacture (USA):
Boeing (aircraft) and GE (engines) are US-based
Entitled Participants:
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Manufacturer technical advisors
State of Registry/Operator (India):
Aircraft registered in India (VT-prefix)
Operated by Air India
State with Citizen Fatalities (UK):
53 British nationals onboard → UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) granted observer status
 

Why Foreign Participation Matters
Technical Necessities
Boeing/GE possess proprietary aircraft data inaccessible to others
NTSB brings expertise from 1,000+ crash investigations
Global Safety Ecosystem
Findings influence:
Aircraft design modifications worldwide
Pilot training protocols
Air traffic control procedures
 

AAIB: India’s Investigative Arm
Mandate Under Ministry of Civil Aviation
Authority to:
Secure crash sites
Recover flight recorders (black boxes)
Issue safety recommendations
Critical Restriction: Reports cannot determine criminal/civil liability
 

Key Q&A for Exams
Q1: Which treaty governs international aviation accident probes?
A: Chicago Convention, 1944 (specifically Annex 13).
Q2: Why did US experts join the AI-171 investigation?
A: As “State of Design/Manufacture” (Boeing/GE made the aircraft).
Q3: What rights do participating states have?
A: Site access, evidence examination, technical submissions, final report receipt.
Q4: Can AAIB reports assign blame for crashes?
A: No – ICAO mandates investigations focus only on safety improvements.
Q5: Which agency leads air crash probes in India?
A: Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).