The tragic incident involving an Air India 787 Dreamliner in Ahmedabad raises serious questions about fuel supply management and potential sabotage, as both engines failed shortly after takeoff, leading to a catastrophic descent.
On June 12, a devastating incident occurred in Ahmedabad involving an Air India 787 Dreamliner aircraft, which tragically exploded after climbing to an altitude of 625 feet. This catastrophic event resulted in the loss of many lives and has left the aviation community and the public searching for answers. To understand the complexities behind this incident, it is essential to delve into the critical components of the 787 Dreamliner and the circumstances surrounding the flight.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is equipped with several crucial components that ensure its safe operation. Among these, the fuel tank is a vital element, located in the left, right, and center parts of the aircraft. To mitigate any explosive risks, the fuel tank is protected by nitrogen. Additionally, the aircraft relies on high-pressure pumps to send fuel to the engines, which are essential for maintaining engine operation.
In the event of a pump failure, the engine can operate through a suction feed system, which provides limited fuel. However, this limited supply does not generate enough power for sustained flight, especially during a climb. The aircraft is also equipped with cross-feed valves that ensure balanced fuel allocation between the engines. A critical issue arises if the main fuel valve is closed manually, leading to insufficient fuel supply to the engines, which can result in engine failure.
Experts in aviation assert that if the main fuel valve is closed, the aircraft can only sustain flight for approximately 40 to 45 seconds before the engines fail due to lack of fuel. In the case of the Air India flight, both engines failed within about 30 seconds after takeoff, leading to a complete power loss. This raises significant concerns about the circumstances leading to such a rapid failure.
Long-range flights, such as the one from Ahmedabad to London, are subject to stringent mandatory checks. These checks include verifying fuel tank levels, fuel supply lines, and pump functionality, all conducted by ground technicians known as the Pre-Departure Technical Clearance (PDT) team. After these checks, pilots are required to verify the systems, but they do not have the authority to open or close fuel supply lines.
In light of the incident, various conspiracy theories have emerged, suggesting possible sabotage. However, the high level of CCTV surveillance at airports makes it unlikely that a bomb could have been planted on the aircraft without detection. Furthermore, the security protocols in place at Indian airports, managed by the CISF, complicate the possibility of such an act.
Several coincidences surrounding the incident have raised eyebrows. Notably, a Turkish firm, Selby, which had been providing cargo handling services at Ahmedabad Airport, had its security clearance revoked on May 15, just weeks before the incident. Following this, the firm sought relief from the Gujarat High Court, which denied their request on June 5. Coincidentally, on June 6, inspections revealed explosives in Turkish Airlines' cargo sections at four major airports in India.
Additionally, protests against the Tata Group, linked to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, coincided with the incident, as did threats from a terrorist group against Indian Prime Minister Modi during his visit to Canada. These events, occurring in close succession, have led to speculation about a broader conspiracy.
It is imperative for investigative agencies to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the fuel supply system of the aircraft. Identifying who last accessed the fuel supply valve before the flight and reviewing CCTV footage will be crucial in determining whether this was a case of pilot error, mechanical failure, or something more sinister.
While the investigation continues, the tragic loss of life in this incident cannot be overlooked. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time. As we await further developments, it is essential to approach this incident with a critical eye, recognizing that coincidences may not always be mere chance. The aviation community must ensure that such tragedies do not occur again, and that all necessary precautions are taken to safeguard passengers and crew alike.
