One year after the Air India flight AI171 tragedy, families in the UK whose loved ones perished in the crash are still grappling with grief and a profound lack of answers. Many are urging the immediate publication of the official investigation report, believing it holds the key to understanding what caused the disaster and ensuring such an event is never repeated.
Mohammed Shoeb Iproliya, who lost his wife in the crash, articulated a sentiment shared by many affected families: "We don't want any money, anything, nothing, we need the truth - why it happened and who's responsible." He described his wife as his "whole life," and spoke of their dreams of starting a family and buying a home in the UK. The 12th of June, the anniversary of the crash, remains a deeply painful day for him, marked by the memory of a final phone call from his wife before her flight, promising to meet him at Gatwick Airport.
The crash also claimed the lives of Pragna Devji's parents, Devji Lacmane and Vanita Cana, both of whom were British nationals. Ms Devji spoke of the daily calls she missed from her mother, while her husband, Ashvin Dhiru, remembered Mr Lacmane as a "very kind" man who worked in a Leicester shop and was always willing to help others. For them, every aircraft overhead now serves as a poignant reminder of the tragedy. They, too, are desperate for the final report to be released, not only for closure but also for the critical safety improvements it could inspire.
A spokesperson for Air India stated: "One year on, the memory of the AI171 tragedy continues to be deeply felt across Air India. We stand in solidarity with the families and communities affected and remain united in mourning those we have lost." However, this message offers little comfort to those seeking concrete explanations. While a preliminary report from India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau indicated that both of the plane's fuel switches moved to the "cut-off" position immediately after take-off, thereby stopping fuel supply to the engine, the full findings and their implications are yet to be disclosed.
Another relative, Sameer Rafik, whose cousin Faizan was killed, echoed the calls for a "perfect report" and accountability. He questioned how experienced pilots could crash a flight, dismissing thermal issues as the sole cause. "I need a proper answer from the Air India and from the government. What is the actual issue?" he demanded, reflecting the frustration and desire for definitive answers that resonates throughout the affected communities.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) typically issues travel advice following major incidents abroad, and would have offered consular assistance to British nationals affected by the crash. While the immediate aftermath focused on repatriation and support, the ongoing delay in the report's publication prolongs the distress for families, many of whom are based in the UK and continue to seek justice and understanding.