Air India CEO Urges Caution After AAIB Preliminary Report on Crash Finds No Cause or Recommendations

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson on Monday addressed employees in the wake of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau’s (AAIB) preliminary report into the recent crash, urging everyone to refrain from drawing premature conclusions.

In a letter seen by Hindustan Times, Wilson described the aftermath of the tragedy as a period in which “not a moment has gone by without thinking of the passengers, friends, colleagues and wider community who were lost or injured.”

Commenting on the report, he noted that while it brought “greater clarity,” it also raised new questions. Importantly, the preliminary findings identified no mechanical or maintenance issues, no problems with the aircraft or engines, and confirmed that mandatory maintenance and fuel quality standards had been met. The pilots also passed their pre-flight breathalyser tests, and there were no medical concerns reported.

Despite the absence of any findings so far, Wilson acknowledged that the report had sparked renewed media speculation. He urged employees to focus on facts, stating, “The Preliminary Report found no mechanical or maintenance issues… There was no abnormality with the take-off roll.”

As a precaution, all Boeing 787 aircraft in Air India’s fleet were inspected following the accident and found to be in working order. “We continue to perform all necessary checks, as we will any new ones that authorities may suggest,” he added.

Emphasizing that the investigation is still ongoing, Wilson said: “Until a final report or cause is tabled, there will no doubt be new rounds of speculation and more sensational headlines. We must nevertheless remain focused on our task.”

He concluded by reaffirming the airline’s commitment to its core values: integrity, excellence, customer focus, innovation, and teamwork, stating that the top priorities remain supporting the bereaved, assisting the injured, and ensuring a safe and reliable travel experience for all passengers.