New Delhi – July 21, 2025 — Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has strongly rebuked Western media outlets for publishing what he described as speculative and vested-interest reporting related to the crash of Air India Flight AI 171. Speaking at the launch of IndiGo operations from Hindon Airport, Minister Naidu reiterated his full confidence in the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and discouraged premature conclusions.
🧩 Minister’s Key Points
- Unwavering trust in AAIB: “I believe in AAIB… They have done a wonderful job in decoding the whole black box and getting the data out in India itself,” he emphasized, praising the bureau’s ability to process critical flight recorders domestically—a first in India’s history .
- Condemning premature commentary: He urged Western media outlets, which he said may have vested interests, to refrain from commentary until the official investigation is complete. “Making any comments until the final report comes out is not a good exercise… There is no point in jumping to conclusions at this point.”
- Call for calm & patience: The minister echoed the AAIB’s request for restraint, stressing that drawing unverified conclusions is not constructive and could undermine confidence in India’s aviation safety protocols
🌍 Broader Media Controversy
The statements come in response to recent reports by major Western outlets—such as The Wall Street Journal—suggesting possible pilot involvement in the crash, citing early cockpit recordings where both engine fuel control switches moved almost simultaneously after takeoff. The AAIB, however, has not determined whether the actions were intentional or accidental, and medical and technical evaluations remain ongoing .
